Cystic Fibrosis
Last week was Cystic Fibrosis (CF) week, or you may have heard their campaign on the radio "Bubbles Week". So I thought I would shed some light on the condition. According to the Cystic Fibrosis NZ website - “...1 in 3000 - 3,500 infants born will have Cystic Fibrosis. Currently there are more than 500 children and adults with Cystic Fibrosis in New Zealand.”
CF is a genetic condition where chlorine salt cannot pass through onto surfaces that need to be lubricated by a thin layer of mucous. Instead the mucous that is secreted becomes thick and sticky, preventing the normal flow of needed body fluids.
This means that those with CF suffer from digestive problems because the pancreas is too clogged to secrete digestive enzymes, and those that are may not reach the small intestine – where most breakdown of food is completed and absorbed. This can cause vitamin deficiency, malnutrition and poor growth because nutrients leave your body unused.
Their lungs also tend to become clogged with mucous which increases the chance of infection and hinders the normal draining of fluid that can build up there. And lastly their sweat tends to contain a lot of salt which can bring about the danger of dehydration and the problems associated with it.
From a natural health point of view little can be done to reverse any genetic condition, but research does indicate there are potential nutrients that can help support the various body systems that come under strain.
Long-term use (8 months) of EPA and DHA supplementation from omega 3 fish oils have had positive effects, such as decreasing inflammation, in cystic fibrosis.[i]
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, a friendly gut bacteria (probiotic), reduced pulmonary exacerbations and hospital admissions in patients with CF, suggesting that probiotics may delay respiratory impairment and that a relationship exists between intestinal and pulmonary inflammation.[ii]
Laboratory evidence suggests that vitamin A could have a protective effect on respiratory status in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). This study shows a significant correlation between serum vitamin A concentrations and every aspect of lung function tested in 38 patients with stable CF.[iii]
Ivy Leaf has a well researched action on the lungs to thin out mucous secretions to make it easy to bring up, and offers a potential for relief, though at the writing of this no clinical trials had been performed.
There is also research that indicates cucurmin (from turmeric), Vitamin A,C and zinc may have an altogether positive role in supporting the those with CF.
You can make an instant donation for Cystic Foundation via phone: 0800 FOR CF. You can also follow CF Foundation on Facebook
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[1] De Vizia, B., et al. Effect of an 8-month treatment with omega-3 fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic) in patients with cystic fibrosis. J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 27(1):52-57, 2003
[1]·Bruzzes, E., et al. Effect of Lactobacillus GG supplementation on pulmonary exacerbations in patients with cystic fibrosis: a pilot study. Clin Nutr. 2007.
[1]·Aird, F. K., et al. Vitamin A and lung function in CF. Journal of Cystic Fibrosis. 5(2):129-131, 2006.
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