NACFC 2022 | S19: Approaches to Nutrition in Cystic Fibrosis: Emerging Trends

The nutritional state of individuals with cystic fibrosis has evolved over the years, ranging from the almost universal prevalence of malnutrition and poor growth to the current picture of diverse outcomes of undernutrition to obesity. Advances in the understanding of CF genotypes and phenotypes, early diagnosis through newborn screening, as well as therapeutic interventions including CFTR modulators have underscored the importance of individualizing overall CF care including medical nutrition therapy. Experience with different nutrition approaches and CF is evolving. Both people with CF and healthcare providers need to pivot to address novel weight issues. Healthcare providers need to broaden their assessment and intervention skills. Evidence-based approaches exist for weight management for the general population, but the evidence is lacking for people with CF. Opportunities abound for determining effective and personalized weight management and nutrition approaches in partnership with people with CF. Changes in the demographics of nutritional status for people with CF will be discussed. This session presents the impact of weight stigma from the patient perspective and provides tips for clinicians to partner with people with CF around personal nutrition goals. Current evidence for different approaches to nutrition management will be reviewed with potential applications to CF medical nutrition therapy. Topics include emerging dietary trends for weight management, medical and surgical intervention for obesity, weight-neutral and non-diet approaches to nutrition care, and the importance of exercise and physical activity as a pillar of overall health, including weight. This session also includes a pro-con panel discussion on the topics presented including medical and surgical management, intensive behavior therapy, weight-neutral approaches, traditional weight management, and comprehensive lifestyle change intervention for overweight and obesity for people with CF. Originally recorded November 4, 2022.