What type of diet should be taught for an older infant with cystic fibrosis?

• A. Low-protein diet
• B. High-fat diet
• C. Low-carbohydrate diet
• D. High-calorie diet

Answer: (D)

Older infants with cystic fibrosis have increased energy needs due to fat malabsorption from pancreatic insufficiency and higher metabolic demands from lung disease. To support proper growth and prevent malnutrition, a high-calorie diet is recommended because calories, not just grams of fat, drive weight gain and development in infancy. Fat provides a dense source of calories, but this plan should be paired with pancreatic enzyme replacement to improve digestion and with fat-soluble vitamin supplementation to prevent deficiencies.

A low-protein approach would hinder growth and tissue repair, a low-carbohydrate plan would deprive the child of essential energy, and focusing on fat alone without increasing total calories may not meet the child’s overall energy needs.