Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition in which the epithelial cells are affected. This, in turn, disturbs the water and salt balance in the body and leads to the production of thick mucus that blocks ducts and passageways, making respiration difficult. This mucus also keeps the intestines from absorbing the required nutrition and fat, leaving the patient underweight and unhealthy even after hearty meals.

To compensate for this loss of nutrition, there are certain foods that are recommended for the patients of cystic fibrosis. Adding the following to the diet can help them with the condition:

• Protein
  About 20% of the foods recommended for cystic fibrosis are rich in protein, which is helpful in the development of muscles and prevention of muscle loss. Foods rich in protein are meat, eggs, fish, nuts, and such.
• Iron
  Iron is essential to fight against diseases and infections. It’s also necessary for the production of red blood cells, which, in turn, enhance blood flow in the body. Iron absorption is low in patients with cystic fibrosis, which results in a deficiency. It is recommended that patients consume meat, dry fruits, and dark green vegetables that are rich in iron.
• Salt
  Due to the saltier sweat in patients with cystic fibrosis, the electrolyte levels in their body are easily disturbed, especially during hot weather. To replace the lost salt, they are advised to add salt to their meals with pickles and eat salty snacks.
• Zinc
  Zinc is required in one’s body to fight infections. To compensate for the unabsorbed and lost zinc, foods like meat, liver, kidney beans, eggs, and seafood should be consumed by the patients of cystic fibrosis.
• Calcium
  One of the main concerns for people with cystic fibrosis is the risk of osteoporosis. Calcium-rich products like whole milk, high-fat cheese, and high-fat yogurt are good foods to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis.
• Antioxidants
  An important method of fighting off bacterial infections is through antioxidants. Patients with cystic fibrosis may experience airway inflammation in the lungs, paving way for bacteria to enter the body. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and help fight off infections.
• Fiber
  To reduce the risk of intestinal blockages, high-fiber foods like wheat, whole grain cereals, vegetables, and such are recommended for people with cystic fibrosis.

Ways to add calories

These foods are recommended for cystic fibrosis patients who require more calories than others in their age group. They can add the following to their diets:

• Calorie boosters like butter and cream in the meals
• Whole milk and milkshakes
• Extra cheese and butter in foods like sandwiches, pasta, and pizza
• An egg with meat for breakfast
• Calorie-rich desserts like ice cream, cheesecake, and pudding
• Avoid non-diet dressings on salads and vegetables

Some patients require vitamin supplements, especially for vitamin A, D, E, and K because they are fat-soluble. These vitamins are important for healing and growth. Patients who cannot absorb nutrients through food or supplements are recommended to intake food through tube feeding.