Many types of diseases exist, and they are categorized in multiple ways. Among them is a specific class deemed “chronic diseases.” Predominant chronic diseases include heart disease (a broad term for many specific heart conditions), arthritis, and chronic kidney disease. There are many others, as well.
The causes of chronic diseases are often complex (such as the one discussed in this article). These diseases usually necessitate treatment and/or management, yet are difficult or impossible to cure. They tend to last many years or for a person’s entire life. Many (not all) chronic diseases present either life-threatening physiological events or circumstances, or the risk thereof.
A Look at Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. With cystic fibrosis, cells do not attract water molecules as they are supposed to, which leads to the formation and build-up of mucus that is abnormally thick and sticky. This mucus build-up affects the lungs and pancreas negatively, causing a variety of complications.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition. The mechanism underpinning CF is a mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which causes the CFTR protein to work improperly. This inhibits chloride (a component in salt) to come to the surface of cells in order to attract water to the cell. In turn, the consistency of mucus is altered, causing symptoms and complications.
In the lungs, mucus can clog airways and trap germs, including bacteria. This can cause inflammation, infections, and even respiratory failure. As for the pancreas, particular enzymes are blocked by mucus, which can lead to food and nutrient malabsorption and, therefore, malnutrition and poor growth. Other complications could include damaged airways, a collapsed lung, or digestive system complications such as inhibited digestion and poor nutrient absorption.
Only about 40,000 people in the U.S. have CF. However, about 1 in 30 people carry the genetic mutation for it, and it can manifest in a child if both parents have the mutation. Various medications are prescribed for CF. Treatment has improved in recent years, leading to easier quality of life and longer lifespan of persons with cystic fibrosis.
Vitamin Supplements for Cystic Fibrosis
Because of the nutrient disruption that can occur with CF, fat-soluble vitamins and other supplemental vitamins are often advised for those with CF. Here is a look at five of the most beneficial supplements for those managing and living with CF:
Vitamin D is beneficial for multiple reasons, including its essential role in supporting the health and strength of bones. This is merited because CF raises the risk of developing osteoporosis. Vitamin D maintains proper calcium levels in the blood, and it is necessary for the functioning of the immune and nervous systems. Vitamin D can also help support lung function and overall muscle performance.
Vitamin E is another fat-soluble vitamin. It is recommended for those with CF because it is of specific benefit to the health and integrity of cell membranes, particularly in the blood and in the nerves.
Vitamin A is yet another fat-soluble vitamin recommended for CF, and is perhaps the most important one. Vitamin A is essential for the body to maintain surface tissue within the lungs. By doing so, vitamin A helps to prevent tissue damage, and simply fight infections as well. Vitamin A provides a general and most-relevant immune benefit by supporting the health of cell membranes.
Biotin, or vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that can help those with cystic fibrosis by helping the body metabolize fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. This benefit is very important for those with CF, because of the digestive disruptions it can cause. Biotin is helpful because it supports the flourishing of the healthy bacteria that are within the body.
Vitamin C is the last vitamin mentioned here, and it is water-soluble. Vitamin C is helpful because it combats oxidative stress and inflammation. Oxidative stress and inflammation both contribute to the complications of CF. Furthermore, vitamin C supports the bodily absorption of vitamin E.
If you or someone you know has cystic fibrosis, the routine vitamin regime ought to be well-rounded, to make up for nutritional deficiencies due to this disease. These five vitamins are five of the most beneficial ones. It is recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking any vitamin or nutrient supplement to address CF, in part to make sure such natural remedies won’t conflict with any prescription medicines being used.