What is fat? Fat is one of the three kinds of nutrients that give you energy. Fat, part of a group of substances called lipids, has 9 calories per gram—more than twice as many as carbohydrates or proteins.Where do I get fat? Good sources of fat include oils, butter, eggs, cheese and nuts. Why do I need fat? Fat is very important in helping your body work properly. They provide “essential fatty acids” you can only get from food. These fatty acids help control your blood pressure, the ability of your blood to clot, and inflammation in your body. Fatty acids also transport important vitamins like A, D, E, and K through your bloodstream. Fat also maintains healthy hair and skin. How much fat do I need? CF patients should get about 35 to 40 percent of their calories from fat. This extra fat in your diet will help you meet these increased calorie needs. What is fiber? Fiber is a carbohydrate that your body does not digest.
Where do I get fiber? Fiber is present in all plants. Good sources include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Why do I need fiber? Fiber is important because it helps form stools and move them through the digestive tract, decreasing the chance of bowel blockages. How much fiber do I need? For children over 2, the recommended intake is the child's age + 5 grams. |