Which statement best reflects the nutritional concern in cystic fibrosis?

Which statement best reflects the nutritional concern in cystic fibrosis?

• A. Weight loss due to fat malabsorption
• B. Weight gain due to increased appetite
• C. Weight loss due to dehydration
• D. Weight unaffected

Answer: (A)

In cystic fibrosis, the main nutritional issue is fat malabsorption caused by pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. Thick secretions block the pancreatic ducts, reducing lipase release into the gut. Without adequate lipase, fats aren’t digested or absorbed well, leading to steatorrhea and a significant loss of calories, which shows up as weight loss and poor growth even when intake is normal or high. This fat malabsorption also predisposes to fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies, so treatment focuses on pancreatic enzyme replacement with meals and snacks and a high-calorie, high-protein diet with fat-soluble vitamin supplementation. Dehydration or weight gain aren’t the primary nutritional concerns in CF, and weight is often affected because of malabsorption.

In cystic fibrosis, the main nutritional issue is fat malabsorption caused by pancreatic exocrine insufficiency. Thick secretions block the pancreatic ducts, reducing lipase release into the gut. Without adequate lipase, fats aren’t digested or absorbed well, leading to steatorrhea and a significant loss of calories, which shows up as weight loss and poor growth even when intake is normal or high. This fat malabsorption also predisposes to fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies, so treatment focuses on pancreatic enzyme replacement with meals and snacks and a high-calorie, high-protein diet with fat-soluble vitamin supplementation. Dehydration or weight gain aren’t the primary nutritional concerns in CF, and weight is often affected because of malabsorption.