Let us get some snippet of information about the disease, before we move on to diet plans for people with cystic fibrosis.
Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic disorder, which causes the protective mucus in the lungs to thicken and clog normal functioning. The mucous also obstructs the activity of enzymes, which help in metabolism and the functioning of the pancreas, affecting normal digestion. Left unattended, the disease can lead to multiple organ failure, and eventually death.
The incidence of the disease is found to be greater in people of Mediterranean descent. In America, about 1 in 4,000 children are born with CF. and about 1 in 31 Americans is a carrier of the defective gene(at least one copy)
Medical science is yet to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis and the only mode of combat for the disease lies in strong medication and a proper nutritious diet.
Considering the slow response of the body afflicted with CF, you need to go for wholesome foods, which provide optimum nutrition and also work towards weight gain.
So here is a list of nutrients demanded in additional quantum to sustain people with Cystic fibrosis:

•    Protein : Proteins are required for body building apart from being an important source of energy. Patients especially teenagers suffering from cystic fibrosis need additional inputs in the way of proteins as around 15-20 % calories for Teen health should be derived from proteins. The menu for people with Cystic Fibrosis should include protein rich foods such as fish, lean meat,  eggs, soy, nuts etc.

•    Iron : Iron is an important mineral required to bolster the human body’s immune system. It also acts as an oxygen carrier as hemoglobin (protein) is made of iron. For people with cystic fibrosis, it becomes imperative to include iron in their daily diet, as they are generally weak and highly prone to infections. Leafy greens, fortified cereals are examples of iron-rich foods.

•    Zinc : Zinc aids in digestion(absorption) and also acts as a good assuaging agent. Since Cystic fibrosis clogs the digestive tracts, inhibiting the action of enzymes, zinc should be an integral item in any menu for people with cystic fibrosis.

•    Calcium : Cystic Fibrosis makes the victim prone to many ailments such as weakening of the bones and consequent osteoporosis. An additional boost of calcium in the diet in the way of fat-rich milk, yoghurt and certain fruit juices can offset the manifestation of such ailments.

•    Salt :   Another noticeable symptom of Cystic fibrosis is heavy loss of salt along with sweat. The rate of salt release increases during summer, So when you are charting out a menu for people with cystic fibrosis, remember to include salty foods (such as salt crackers) in their diet. This will help make up for the salt loss to an extent.

Having known about the additional nutrients required to add on, here are  a few tips for a menu for people with cystic fibrosis.

Since calories matter a lot for these people, here is what you can do to give that extra dose of energy for CF people:
1) Topping desserts with whipped cream.
2) Adding extra cheese to pizza and pasta .
3) A sample breakfast menu can include omelets topped with bacon/ ham or cheese, with puddings to go with whipped cream.
4) Make sandwiches with cheese and have a nutritious dip such as guacamole to go with it.
5) Drink full-cream milk. Include more of ice-creams.
6) A dinner including creamy chicken with broccoli and a juice to go with it makes up for a healthy calorie-rich meal.

Cystic fibrosis need not mean the end of the world as for all the degenerating symptoms of the disease, there is room for sustainability of the patient. With skilful nutrition management and advanced medical care the manifestation of the disease can be controlled and our tips on how to devise a sample menu for people with cystic fibrosis just helps you  do that.

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