NCM 105: Case Analysis Therapeutic Diets

CSA 1: Barnachea, Rogieleen

Quiñones, Laurence
Ruiz, Aaron Carl
Tarifa, Vannesa
Tuazon, Avelino

Case Study Questions

Child with Cystic Fibrosis

Julia Franklin is a 6-year-old child who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at age 2. She has a poor
appetite, and her height and weight are below normal for her age. Her parents have been instructed to
feed her a high-calorie, high-protein, high-fat diet with extra salt and to provide snacks between all
meals. She takes supplemental enzymes each time she eats. She experiences frequent respiratory
infections, and has had numerous hospitalizations for cystic fibrosis exacerbation since her diagnosis.

1. What is the cause of cystic fibrosis?

Answer: The condition known as cystic fibrosis runs in families. It is brought on by a gene
abnormality that causes the body to create mucus, an unusually thick and clingy fluid.

2. Explain Julia’s short stature and problem maintaining a normal body weight.

Answer: Cystic fibrosis blocks proper absorption of vital nutrients and fat in intestines, causing
mucus that covers cells to thicken and stick together, resulting in delayed development, and
difficulty gaining weight.

3. Why were her parents instructed to feed Julia a high-calorie, high-protein, high-fat
diet? Why does she need extra salt?

Answer: Cystic Fibrosis causes malnutrition, poor growth, etc. These diets will help Julia
maintain her weight and Extra salt will increase Julia's appetite which help improve her growth
development.

4. If Julia cannot swallow the supplemental enzymes, suggest ways her parents
might provide the enzymes to her.

Answer: Advise the parents to give their daughter foods rich and high in natural enzymes.
Natural enzymes can be found in foods that help to aid digestion and improve gut health.
 5. What types of complications might Julia develop as she gets older?

Answer: The common complication is respiratory disease. Parents should watch for signs of
pulmonary problems like wheezing or coughing up mucus. It can lead to increased mortality if
left untreated.