Important Nutrients
• Zinc
• Iron
• Calcium
• Vitamin A
• Vitamin D
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin K
Vitamin A
What?
A fat-soluble vitamin that can also be made from beta-carotene.
Where?
Found in egg yolks, milk, liver and fortified cereals. Good sources of beta-carotene include dark green or orange fruits and vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, winter squash, spinach, broccoli, apricots, cantaloupe and peaches.
Why do I need Vitamin A?
Vitamin A plays an important part in vision, healthy bones and the immune system. Beta-carotene works as an antioxidant to keep tissues healthy.
How much Vitamin A do I need?
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation recommends the following guidelines for daily Vitamin A intake:
Age | Vitamin A (IU) |
0-12 months | 1,500 |
1-3 years | 5,000 |
4-8 years | 5,000-10,000 |
8 years and older | 10,000 |
Vitamin D
What?
A vitamin that the body absorbs with fat.
Where?
Found in fortified milk, liver, salmon and fortified cereals. Your body can also make Vitamin D during sun exposure, but it is important not to get too much sun because of the risk of skin cancer. Talk to your CF team about the right amount of sun for you.
Why do I need Vitamin D?
Vitamin D helps to build and maintain strong bones by keeping the right amount of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. Without enough vitamin D, your bones can become thin and brittle.
How much Vitamin D do I need?
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation recommends the following guidelines for daily Vitamin D intake.
Age | Vitamin D (IU) |
0-12 months | 400 |
1-3 years | 400-800 |
4-8 years | 400-800 |
8 years and older | 400-800 |
