Where do I get salt?
Any food that tastes salty like chips, pickles, fast food, frozen dinners and french fries is a good source of salt. You can add salt directly to your foods too.

Why do I need salt?
Our muscles, digestive system and nerve cells need salt to work properly. Salt also helps move fluid in and out of our cells. CF patients lose more salt in their sweat than the average person.

How much salt do I need?
CF patients need to have a high salt diet. Infants need to have salt added to their formula or baby food. Kids and adults should use the salt shaker liberally and eat foods that are high in salt. Extra salt (along with extra liquids) is very important during hot weather. There is not a set amount of salt that individuals with CF should have every day, but your doctor can help you determine the amount that is right for you.

Fluid
Fluid is important for a balanced diet and for maintaining the right amount of water in your body. Losing extra salt and water in your sweat increases the chance of dehydration, especially in the summer. Water is an excellent choice to maintain fluid balance. Milk is also a good choice because it provides calories and protein, in addition to fluid. But juice and soda can make you feel full and decrease your appetite for healthier drinks and snacks.