Nutritional intervention in patients with Cystic Fibrosis: A systematic review

Abstract

Background: To systematically assess the literature published after 1997 describing the effectiveness of nutritional interventions in Cystic Fibrosis patients. Methods: An online search in PUBMED, EMBASE and COCHRANE databases was conducted. Original studies with 4 patients or more, describing a nutritional intervention and giving at least weight as an outcome parameter were included. Results: The inclusion criteria were met by 17 articles, focusing on respectively behavioural interventions (n=6), oral supplementation (n=4) or enteral tube feeding (n=7). This latter intervention was universally successful to induce weight gain. One behavioural study and 2 oral supplementation studies also reported significant weight gain. Conclusion: Enteral tube feeding is effective to improve nutritional status, while the described effects of behavioural intervention and oral supplementation are not consistent at present. © 2012 European Cystic Fibrosis Society.