Nutrition therapy for cystic fibrosis

About cystic fibrosis

There are not that many people who have never heard of cystic fibrosis. Those who have not heard of it need to know that it is an inherited disease and that it strikes the respiratory and digestive systems. The children are hit by this condition more than adults and when they are affected by it their epithelial cells will not be able to function properly. These cells are important for the making up of sweat glands, among other functions. When there are not enough of these cells, the balance of water and salt in the body will get disturbed. When that happens, the body will produce thick mucus and that mucus will clog the lungs. Once that happens, the lungs are an easy target for various infections and other breathing problems. The problem with kids who are affected by cystic fibrosis is even greater because the mucus will prevent the system from absorbing all the important nutrients. Because of that, poor digestion, slow growth, problems with gaining weight and greasy bowel movements may occur, among other things. It is common for people who go to the hospital to be already suffering from a condition known as pancreatic insufficiency. Parents need to know that their child can grow normally and become strong as long as they make sure that he or she consumes all the important nutrients along with extra fat and calories and prescribed enzymes. A child’s nutritional needs

First of all, a child with this condition needs more calories than other kids of that age. The calorie need will be greater when a child suffers from an illness. Parents need not worry too much because the dietitian will determine just how much calories a child should consume. Apart from the extra calories, a child will also need to intake more calcium, essential fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins, iron, salt and zinc. All of these nutrients are important for the child’s growth. Meals at home and away

When it comes to meals, the dietitian will also be able to help with advice. Parents should encourage the child to eat one new food every week if the child is a picky eater. Parents should also make the meals as pleasant as possible. In order to achieve that, parents should make sure that the meal does not last for more than half an hour, there are not many distractions, provide more smaller portions and offer praise for eating well. There are some other tips that might help the parents.