234 Vegetable, fruit, dairy and discretionary food intake of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients and comparison with the general population: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Energy and macronutrient targets form the cornerstone of CF dietary recommendations. However, little is known of diet quality and intakes of core food groups in comparison to the general population. CF dietary recommendations need to extend beyond macronutrients to address metabolic health with improved survival. Objectives To examine vegetable, fruit, dairy and discretionary food (DF) (e.g. cakes, biscuits, sugar drinks etc.) group intake in CF patients and compare to Australian population data and dietary guidelines. Methods Cross-sectional study of 24 stable (median FEV 1 60%; BMI 22 kg/m 2 ) CF adult outpatients. A 7day food diary obtained information on food intakes, then categorized into serves/day for food groups. Intakes were compared with Australian adult population data and dietary guidelines. Results No CF patient met the recommended daily 5serves of vegetables (average 1.4serves/day), compared with 8.2% of the Australian population. 8.3% of CF patients met fruit recommendations compared to 48.5% of Australian adults. 45.8% of CF patients met Australian guidelines for dairy consumption (average 2.6 serves/day; no comparative normative data available). For CF patients, DF contributed 29% of energy intake, compared to 25% for the Australian population. Conclusion The quality and variety of CF patients' diet is of concern with notable lower intakes of fruit and vegetables. The comparable intakes of DF in the CF and general population suggest lower reliance on high energy dense foods/beverages in this comparatively well group of CF adults. CF dietary recommendations need revising to reflect the current range of nutrition priorities as survival improves.