Vacationing With CF

Staying healthy with cystic fibrosis (CF) is a challenge no matter what, but it can be even more difficult to stay on track when distracted by the excitement and stress of traveling.

As you embark on your next vacation destination, it's important to remember to keep both you and your family's nutritional needs in check. Here are some quick tips that our family found essential while our daughter with CF was growing up, and that she now incorporates into her own family's travel plans:

Plan ahead

Anticipate situations where proper nutrition may not be available and plan ahead to bring meals and snacks that can be eaten on-the-go, if needed. While away from your everyday environment, it may be tempting to forget to keep track of eating schedules and proper meal planning. Avoid potential complications and slip-ups by being mindful of this before you pack your bags.

Stock up smartly

One of the best ways you can look out for your family's health is to shop with a purpose prior to your departure. Stock up on high-caloric, easily-accessible snacks like trail mix, dried fruit, granola bars, cheese and cracker packs, and pretzels. Keep perishable items, such as cheese sticks, hummus, cottage cheese, and yogurt, cool with an insulated lunch bag or cooler.

Bring your vitamins

Another way to avoid potential nutrition-related hiccups in your vacation schedule is to incorporate vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K into your diet. Vitamins are always important for people living with CF, but supplements such as vitamin A and E are especially needed while travelling because they can help to fight infections and boost the body's ability to protect itself when sick.

Visit the Staying Healthy with CF page to learn more about these essential vitamins.

Planning ahead and packing meals in advance of your vacation may seem like a bit of a hassle initially, but a little extra effort now could help ensure that you will be able to stay healthy and make the most of this time off with your family.

Safe (and healthy) travels,
Sue Landgraf
Executive Director, CFRI