Cystic Fibrosis and the Need for Extra Calories

Many cystic fibrosis patients have a pancreas deficiency which means that they are unable to produce enough digestive enzymes to extract nutrients from food. This often leads to CFers being underweight and lacking vital minerals and vitamins.

Discover five webcasts about diet and nutrition for cystic fibrosis patients.

In order to compensate, people with cystic fibrosis need to eat more calories than others. They often need to eat a diet which is higher in fat and protein as their body struggles to retain these from food. In addition, many will also need to take enzymes before meals to help them to digest their food and extract the goodness from it.

Patients will usually need to take supplements as well and in warm climates, they may need additional salt. To try and bulk up foods with extra calories and fats but still be able to eat normal meals with their family, nutritionists advise some of the following: adding cheese or butter to mashed potatoes, adding dried fruits and nuts to breakfast cereals, adding diced ham or hard boiled eggs to dishes to increase protein intake, and eating regular snacks between meals. Find out more about nutrition and cystic fibrosis here.

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Cystic Fibrosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.