Question

A nurse is instructing the mother of a child with cystic fibrosis (CF) about the appropriate dietary measures. Which of the following meals best illus- trates the most appropriate diet for a client with cystic fibrosis?

1. A veggie salad and a caramel apple
2. A strawberry jelly sandwich and pretzels
3. A plate of nachos and cheese and a cupcake
4. A piece of fried chicken and a loaded baked potato

Answer 1

For children with cystic fibrosis, the best dietary option is high in calories and nutrients, like Option 4, consisting of fried chicken and a loaded baked potato, due to the need for higher protein and fat intake to compensate for malabsorption.

Step-by-step explanation:

Dietary Measures for Cystic Fibrosis

Children with cystic fibrosis (CF) have specific nutritional needs due to the disease's impact on the digestive system. CF leads to the production of thick and sticky mucus that can obstruct the pancreas, preventing essential enzymes from reaching the intestines to aid digestion. As a result, individuals with CF have difficulty absorbing nutrients and require a higher calorie intake with a diet rich in proteins and fats to compensate for malabsorption.

The best diet choice from the options provided for a child with CF would be Option 4: A piece of fried chicken and a loaded baked potato. This meal is high in calories and contains a source of protein from the chicken. Additionally, the loaded potato likely includes cheese and possibly other high-fat toppings which provide the necessary fats that aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

It is equally important to include a variety of fruits and vegetables, limit sugar and salt intake, and focus on whole, unprocessed foods. This meal option also provides more nutritional benefits compared to the others, which are primarily carbohydrates and lower in overall nutritional content.