Should I change enzyme supplements?

[Guest guest]

Good Morning, y'all,

My weight problems are really starting to stress me out. For the

last two and a half years I've been taking Ultrace MT 20's, and

had great success with them. My doctor has my dose at 4

enzymes every time I eat, which equals to 100,000 USP Lipase,

266,000 USP amylase and 266,000 USP of protease. Back in

2001 after my first attack, I was able to regain the 30 pounds I'd

lost at the onset of my CP over a year's period of time by use of

the enzymes (only 2-3 then).

Then back in January of 2003 when I went into the diabetic

ketoacidosis condition, I lost the 30 pounds again within a two

month period, entering the hospital at 98 pounds. Some of that

was due to dehydration, and once I was properly hydrated in the

hospital, my exiting weight was 107. Since that time I've been

eating well and taking my enzymes, but I've only been able to add

5-6 pounds in the last 13 months, and even a day's worth of a

liquid only diet will cause me to drop 2-3 pounds. It's driving me

crazy!! Right now I'm weighing 111, and I need to add at least

10-15 pounds, and these enzymes don't seem to be contributing

to that goal at all.

I've also noticed within the last month an increased amount of

daily flatulence. So sorry about discussing this ordorous

subject, but I need some advice. It really has intensified to the

point that sometimes I'm afraid to go out in public since I never

know when it's going to happen. And I'm tired of seeing that

raised eyebrow stare from my husband or family every time the

inevitable happens! :-(

Since I don't seem to be absorbing enough nutrients to gain any

weight, and I am having these new problems with excessive

gas, I wondering if it could mean that I need either an increase in

my enzymes, or perhaps a different brand? I'm already taking a

very high dosage. Then the comment that one of our member's

posted yesterday about her husband needing to takie Viokase,

because he had no pancreas function to break down and digest

the enteric-coated enzymes started me thinking.

Since my pancreas is burned out, it, too, has no function

anymore. So maybe Viokase would be a better supplement for

me? My doctor spoke of switching me to Viokase enzymes

several months ago, and I argued against it, saying that I was

happy with the Ultrace, but now I'm wondering if this might be the

answer to help me to gain weight. What do y'all think?

I'm seeing him on the 9th to discuss changing my pain

medication, and this would probably be a good time to discuss

this, too, so I'd appreciate your comments.

With hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

South Carolina

SC & SE Regional Rep.

PAI, Intl.

Note: All comments or advice are personal opinion only, and

should not be substituted for professional medical consultation.