Which dietary strategy is commonly recommended for people with cystic fibrosis?

Which dietary strategy is commonly recommended for people with cystic fibrosis?

• A. Low-fat diet
• B. Very low protein intake
• C. Diet high in fat calories and proteins
• D. No dietary changes

Answer: (C)

In cystic fibrosis, pancreatic exocrine insufficiency makes fat and nutrient absorption inefficient, so the goal is to maximize energy intake. A diet high in calories, with more fat and protein, helps meet the increased energy and growth needs and supports tissue repair. Fat yields the most calories per gram, so emphasizing fats along with adequate protein helps prevent malnutrition and weight loss, which are common in CF. In practice, this approach is paired with pancreatic enzyme replacement during meals to improve fat digestion and absorption, and often fat-soluble vitamin supplementation. Low-fat or no dietary changes wouldn’t address the malabsorption and growth needs, and a very low protein intake would impede growth and healing.

In cystic fibrosis, pancreatic exocrine insufficiency makes fat and nutrient absorption inefficient, so the goal is to maximize energy intake. A diet high in calories, with more fat and protein, helps meet the increased energy and growth needs and supports tissue repair. Fat yields the most calories per gram, so emphasizing fats along with adequate protein helps prevent malnutrition and weight loss, which are common in CF. In practice, this approach is paired with pancreatic enzyme replacement during meals to improve fat digestion and absorption, and often fat-soluble vitamin supplementation. Low-fat or no dietary changes wouldn’t address the malabsorption and growth needs, and a very low protein intake would impede growth and healing.