ByIANSlife Features

April 24, 2020 (IANSlife) Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that causes critical damage to the lungs, digestive system and other organs of the body.

By the age of two, the disease is identified in most of the patients of CF. CF is an inherited disease that causes pancreas to be blocked with mucus, preventing the body from breaking down and digesting food naturally. Mansi Chaudhary, Head of Department, Food & Nutrition, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, talks about this unique condition. 

In Cystic Fibrosis (CF), the pancreas is generally affected and this condition is referred to as pancreatic insufficiency. If you do not suffer from pancreatic insufficiency, you are considered ‘pancreatic sufficient’. 

 

What food should I eat?

Patients of CF have specific dietary needs. They require up to twice as many calories as people without CF because living with a chronic chest infection means that the body uses more energy.

Individuals with CF need eat a balanced diet consisting of fat, protein, dairy, fruit, and vegetables. A high-energy and high-fat diet, with supplements of vitamins (especially fat soluble) and minerals, is advised to compensate for malabsorption and the increased energy demand of chronic inflammation.

This includes all food groups (unless otherwise advised), including breads and cereals, fruit and vegetables, dairy products and protein foods like meat, chicken, fish, nuts and eggs.

 

Fruit

Fruit is  a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals. They are also high in fiber. Common fruit like apricots, mangoes, oranges, bananas, grapefruit grapes, blueberries, and strawberries can help reduce intestinal blockages in people with CF, while antioxidants can help fight off infections.

 

Vegetables

Eating vegetables every day is important for health. They are necessary for essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients like antioxidants and fiber. Orange vegetables, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, are rich sources of vitamin A. Garlic has antibiotic properties that protect against bacterial and viral infections. CF patients are also recommended to have green leafy vegetables.

 

Eggs, Fish and seafood

A person with CF should eat foods that are rich in protein. It will help them aid muscle maintenance and physical ability. Eggs, fish and seafood are excellent sources of protein iron and Vitamin D which is essential for strong bones and for calcium absorption.

 

Nuts

Nuts are an excellent snack for both children and adults suffering from CF. They are rich in calories, healthy fats, proteins and fiber. For children under the age group 4, it's recommended to give nut butter instead of whole nuts as they are a choking hazard.

 

Dairy products

Dairy is a good source of calcium. Though calcium is an essential mineral for everyone, it is mandatory for people with CF who are at increased risk of bone disease.

 

Liquid Intake

In order to thin the mucus in the lungs, it is important to consume plenty of fluids. Most patients also need dietary supplements and digestive enzymes.

 

Dark chocolate

For the people who love chocolates, dark chocolate also contributes to a well-balanced diet. Dark chocolate is a good source of calories and fats.

 

Protein and high calorie shakes

When people with CF lose their appetite, protein shakes and nutritional supplements can play an important role in maintaining a good nutrient status and preventing weight loss.

 

Salts

Though generally people benefit from reducing their salt intake, patients of CF are advised to increase their intake in order to compensate for the loss due to sweat. Salt intake can be increased through salted nuts, pickles, or salted crackers, by using soy sauce, cooking vegetables in broth instead of water.

 

Foods to avoid

Most foods are reasonable for individuals with CF. Since such people have expanded calorie and fat needs, they should attempt to stay away from labeled food items that are marketed as diet food, low fat, fat-free, or low calorie.

 

 

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