Cystic fibrosis or CF is a genetic disease affecting the mucus glands which do not secrete normal fluid. A gene causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus, which blocks ducts in the body, particularly in the lungs and intestines which interferes with body functions like breathing and digestion. This digestive interference impeded a patient's ability to process food, so CF sufferers are often underweight and have a difficult time maintaining a healthy weight. Diet management is extremely important for each CF patient. As with any person, the key is to provide enough nutrition for maximum growth and strength. CF patients should eat balanced diet of high calories, protein, other nutrients, and add vitamin supplements to cover all the bases. Sometimes patients have trouble eating enough calories in their regular diet to maintain or gain weight. High-calorie nutritional supplements and weight gain shakes that come in powders to mix as a drink can be very helpful.
