Making a CF Diet Work for Every Occasion

A guide to staying nourished in any situation

Eating well with cystic fibrosis (CF) goes beyond meeting daily nutrition goals—it's about making sure you can adapt your or your loved one’s diet to every situation. Whether you're dining out, going on vacation, navigating social gatherings and holiday feasts, or meal prepping for the week, it's important to know how to stay properly nourished.

This guide breaks down eating strategies for every occasion to help make every meal work for your or your loved one’s needs with CF—no matter where you are or what’s on the menu.

Day-to-day meal planning

Your daily routine will look different at various stages of life and may vary from person to person. No matter what your schedule looks like or where you are, keeping these key things in mind will help ensure you stay nourished!

How do you like to meal prep?

Some people prefer to meal prep for the entire week on Sundays, while others enjoy making their meals fresh each day, and some land somewhere in between. Find what works for you, your living situation, and your schedule so cooking doesn’t feel like a chore. Read more about meal planning to fit your lifestyle here.

Find recipes that work for you

Everyone has different levels of cooking skills and enjoyment when it comes to being in the kitchen. Through trial and error you can find meals that you enjoy making and eating—whether they’re 5-minute microwave dishes or gourmet meals. Start a list (or your own recipe book) of meals and snacks you like to make, so you can easily reference them for inspiration or meal planning. If you like to grocery shop before the week ahead, use our Meal and Grocery Planner on page 3 of the Staying on Track Journal to make sure you’re prepared.

If you’re in a rut, there is food inspiration everywhere! Explore social media for recipes and cooking tips, find and pin your favorite food blogs, or check out some of these recipes for something new.

Consult with your care team

Your needs are unique to you! Above anything else, work with your care team and dietitian so you can create a nutrition plan that supports your health and energy needs.

Looking for a yummy weeknight meal?
Make our Turkey and Black Bean Chili to enjoy all week. Double it to freeze for later, or go meatless and swap the turkey for extra beans and veggies.

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Dining out, drive-thrus, and delivery

Whether you're dining at a restaurant, grabbing food to go, or having food delivered to your door, making CF-friendly choices helps you enjoy your meal while getting the nutrition your body needs.

Familiarize yourself with the menu

Many restaurants post their menus online, so you can review them ahead of time and select a couple of meals that could work for you. Some establishments, especially chain restaurants, even provide the nutritional information and allergen details online. If the menu isn’t available online, you can call the restaurant to ask about your options.

Knowing what to look for

People with CF require a diet high in energy and fat. While looking at your options, try to pick out meals and sides high in calories and fat while still packing a nutritious punch. Here are some meal ideas sorted by cuisine that could be a good choice:

Mexican: Burritos, quesadillas, and enchiladas are loaded with cheese and meat (or plant-based protein). Don’t forget to add on guacamole and sour cream for an extra boost of fat. Sweet tooth? Consider flan or tres leches cake.
Italian: Carbonara, lasagna, and stuffed pasta like ravioli are rich in cream sauces, cheese, and meat, making them an easy way to get calories. If you need a gluten-free alternative, check if the restaurant offers gluten-free pasta or go for a buttery and cheesy risotto. Don’t hesitate to ask for extra cheese on top!
Thai: Green, red, and Massaman curries are rich in fat from coconut milk and can be easily customized with tofu for a plant-based option, all while being packed with nutrient-dense vegetables. If you're having Pad Thai or fried rice, be sure to sprinkle extra peanuts or cashews.
American: Your best bet is a burger combo! Load your burger with extra cheese and bacon for more calories and fat, and add lettuce and tomato for a micronutrient boost. Pair it with a side of fries, mozzarella sticks, or onion rings, and for your drink, opt for your favorite milkshake.
Japanese: Katsu curry is high in fat from the breaded meat and calorie-dense curry sauce. Sushi rolls with a high-fat fish like salmon or avocado are a great option, as they can be easily customized to fit dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options.
French: Famous for its rich, buttery flavors, there are plenty of high-calorie options to choose from. Enjoy a quiche for breakfast, a Croque Madame for lunch, steak frites for dinner, and finish with crème brûlée for dessert.
Greek: Moussaka and pastitsio are casserole-style dishes layered with meat, béchamel sauce, and cheese. If you’re craving something more fresh, opt for a Horiatiki (traditional Greek) salad and ask for extra feta and olives. Don’t hold back on the dips—like tzatziki and hummus!

Drinking your calories

An easy way to stay on top of your energy needs is by ordering a drink, especially if your appetite is low. Here are some great options:

Full-fat lattes or hot chocolate with whipped cream
Smoothies with full-fat yogurt, milk, and nut butter
Milkshakes made with whole milk and ice cream
Bubble tea with full-fat milk and flavored sweeteners
Fruit juices

No food left behind

If you're dining out and can't finish your meal, ask your server to box it up. Not only does this help reduce food waste, but it also means yummy leftovers for later! If you tend to fill up quickly, this is a great way to portion your meal so you can enjoy part of it at the restaurant and save the rest for later.

Need to make more guacamole for your Mexican leftovers?
Our Guacamole recipe comes together in just under 10 minutes with just a few ingredients!

Remember to watch for allergies and talk to your CF team before making any diet changes.

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Navigating the holiday seasons

Luckily, food is at the heart of most holiday celebrations, and these foods are usually rich in taste and calories. However, each holiday comes with its own traditions, so it’s worth keeping a few things in mind.

Slow and steady

Sometimes our eyes are bigger than our stomachs and we’re left at the table feeling uncomfortably full. Try pacing yourself by eating smaller portions and checking in with your hunger levels throughout the day. If you’re curious about tuning into your body’s natural hunger and fullness cues, take a look at this article on intuitive eating. Going on a light walk in between meals can help with digestion and is also a nice way to spend time with loved ones.

Fasting

If you plan to fast during the holidays, prepare beforehand by eating a meal high in calories and drinking lots of water. Once it’s time to break the fast, choose nutrient-dense foods rich in fat and calories to replenish your energy.

Consult your care team for their guidance if you are considering fasting.

Communicate your needs

The holidays can be a whirlwind of gatherings, often with new people who may not know your needs. Communicating any dietary restrictions or modifications in advance can help ease any anxieties and ensure you have options that work for you. If there's an opportunity to request extras like sauce, cheese, or butter, don’t hesitate to speak up. But if you’d rather keep it to yourself, that’s completely okay too. Just pack a few easy snacks, like protein bars or mixed nuts, so you’re always prepared wherever you go.

Sick of store-bought protein bars?
Our No-Bake Energy Balls are a great calorie-dense snack that are compact for fueling up on the go!

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Eating at college 101

Whether you’re going into your first year at college or heading into senior year, gaining independence in your nutrition can take some adjustment. Keep these tips in mind to help make balanced choices and take charge of your health.

Adjusting to your new schedule

Your routine in college can be unpredictable, with classes scattered throughout the day and new social experiences, all while you keep up with your treatments. The best way to combat this and stay on top of your nutrition is to always have easy-to-eat, nutrient-dense snacks or meals on hand:

If you have back-to-back classes, pack your favorite snacks in your school bag. Non-perishable options like trail mix, individual nut butter packets, muffins, or dried fruit are good choices.
If you have early classes and find yourself in a rush in the mornings, start preparing breakfast the night before. Try easy make-ahead options like smoothies or our Chia Pudding. If you prefer something fresh in the morning, try quick, throw-together meals like a yogurt parfait or our Omelet in a Mug.
If you’re going to be away from your room all day and won’t have time or access to stop for a meal, pack something more filling to keep you going. Easy, portable options like a nut butter and jam sandwich or instant mac and cheese packs can be a satisfying, on-the-go meal.
Tip: Many coffee shops will give you boiling water if you ask!

You can also scope out your favorite spots on campus where you can quickly grab a snack, like a convenience store, or a freshly made meal at a café or fast food establishment.

Brain food

If you’re settling in for a long study session at the library or at home, don’t forget to snack! Some great grazing snacks include trail mix, chocolate-covered almonds, roasted chickpeas, and veggie sticks with hummus. Setting an alarm or reminder every hour can help ensure you’re fueling your body consistently.

Navigating the dining hall

Cafeterias offer a plethora of options, making it easier to customize meals to fit your individual needs. Get creative by mixing and matching from different stations. If there’s a grill, ask for extra protein to put on top of your salad or pasta for a more filling meal. If you’re in the mood for soup, pair it with a sandwich or grilled cheese.

It’s important that you advocate for yourself. Don’t hesitate to ask for modifications, like extra sauce, cheese, or butter to meet your energy needs. If you have any dietary restrictions, identify which stations offer options that work for you. And if you’re struggling to find suitable meals, talk to the staff about accommodations or alternative meal options.

Dorm room hacks

If you don’t have full access to a kitchen, get creative with what you have in your dorm room. Check beforehand what your dorm room and shared spaces come with to know what to expect. You can also look into bringing small, approved appliances from home—like a kettle or toaster—to make cooking easier. Here are some ways to get crafty in the “kitchen”:

Microwave: Cheesy scrambled eggs with steamed veggies, sweet potato topped with guacamole, microwave nachos, or pre-made frozen meals.
Kettle: Instant oatmeal topped with nut butter, instant ramen or soup, hard-boiled or poached eggs, or hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.
Toaster: Frozen hash browns topped with cheese and sour cream, open-faced turkey “grilled” cheese sandwich, mini quesadillas, cinnamon sugar toast, or toasted croissant topped with chocolate hazelnut spread or jam.
Blender: Smoothie bowls topped with granola and nut butter or chocolate avocado mousse.
Mini-fridge: Keep essentials like Greek yogurt cups, fruits and veggies, dips like hummus and guacamole, deli meats and cheese, smoothies, or any leftovers.

Stay money smart

Another part of this new independence is learning how to budget, and the good news is that eating well doesn’t have to break the bank. Look for student discounts at grocery stores and restaurants—don’t hesitate to ask; they’re more common than you think! Plan ahead by making a grocery list and avoid shopping when hungry. Opt for more cost-effective staples like frozen meats and fruits or canned beans and vegetables. If you’re looking for more ways to save, check out our budget-friendly grocery shopping tips.

Craving a sweet treat but you don’t have access to an oven?
Our Our Cookie Cake in a Mug can fulfill that craving in just 5 minutes!

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Eating while traveling and on vacation

No matter where your travels take you—a road trip, an all-inclusive beach vacation, or exploring a new city overseas—these tips can help you stay nourished and make the most of your trip.

Preparing before take-off

If you’re going on a long road trip, make sure you have lots of food packed so you can snack along the way. A cooler with ice packs will give you more flexibility with your food choices, so items stay fresh and ready to enjoy. For more grab-and-go snack ideas, take a look at page 8 in Everyday CF Magazine Volume 9.

If you’re flying, prepare easy-to-eat snacks to bring to the airport and on the flight. A sandwich or wrap, granola or protein bars, and pretzels or trail mix are great compact options! You can also check the airport’s dining options in advance to find restaurants or fast food spots that suit your needs. Keep in mind, some airlines allow special meal requests, like gluten-free, vegan, or diabetic meals. If you require accommodations, make sure to contact your airline well before your flight.

Once you’ve reached your destination

Depending on where you’re going, your food options will look different. If you’re planning to eat out a lot, research restaurants in the area and make reservations at your favorites ahead of time. This is also a great way to avoid long waits or the risk of being turned away. For more tips when eating out, take a look at the dining out section of this article. If you plan to cook most of your meals, research the local cuisine and grocery store offerings beforehand. This will help you prepare for any differences in available ingredients and ensure you have everything you need for your meals.

Here are some ways to eat well no matter where you are:

All-inclusive resorts and cruises: Take advantage of the omelet bar where they’ll usually have lots of cheeses, meats, and fresh veggies. Be sure to ask for extra fats like sauce, cheese, or avocados, keep snacking throughout the day, and make sure to keep hydrated!
Camping and hiking: Bring lots of non-perishable snacks like trail mix or canned tuna and crackers, add extra oil or butter to meals, and make sure to bring a water filtration system if you won’t have access to clean water.
International trips: Learn key words to say in the local language, like “extra cheese” or “dairy-free” if you have dietary restrictions. You can also research the cuisine ahead of time to know what foods are higher in calories and fat.

Early wake up call for a flight?
Prepare our Chocolate Banana Overnight Oats the night before to eat either at home or on the way to the airport.

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Cold and flu season

No matter how much you try to avoid it, getting sick can sometimes be inevitable—especially during flu season, peaking from December to February. Viruses can temporarily reduce appetite and alter taste, so keeping these tips in mind is key to staying nourished. Make sure to talk to your doctor when sick and manage your diet and medicines accordingly.

Small but mighty

Eating frequent, small meals that are high in fat can be more palatable when your appetite is low. Things like salted nuts and seeds, buttered toast with cheese, or hard-boiled eggs are great options.

Increase fluid intake

People with CF already require extra hydration, but fluid needs increase even more when sick as heightened mucus production can lead to further dehydration. Staying well-hydrated can actually help you feel better by alleviating symptoms, and can even support your body in fighting off the virus faster.

Water is always the best choice, but all beverages can help with hydration and can even provide added nutritional benefits. Warm tea with honey and milk, full-calorie electrolyte drinks, coconut water, warm broth, fruit juice, and smoothies are great options to stay hydrated while also getting extra nutrients throughout the day.

If you’re unsure whether you’re drinking enough fluids, check the color of your urine. If it’s pale yellow or colorless, you’re well-hydrated!

Feel-good foods

Easy-to-digest comfort foods are always a great choice when you're sick, but certain foods may help with specific symptoms depending on the virus:

Sore throat and cough: Ice cream, smoothies, and milkshakes made with full-fat milk (even better with a scoop of nut butter) are not only soothing on the throat, but great for calories. Warm tea with extra honey and creamy soups may also help soothe a sore throat.
Nausea and low appetite: Toast with salted butter, plain rice or pasta with olive oil and grated cheese, brothy soups like chicken noodle or miso, and electrolyte drinks can be gentle on the stomach while still providing extra calories.
Sinus congestion: Hot soup with added protein may be a great choice, and it's even better if the broth is spicy or made with cream or coconut milk for an extra boost of fats.

Too tired to cook?

If your illness has you stuck in bed, there are still ways to ensure you're getting the nutrition you need. Opt for pre-made soups with added cream and vegetables—cream of mushroom or broccoli is a great choice! Instant oatmeal topped with nut butter and honey is quick to make in the microwave or on the stovetop. Keep protein bars and ready-to-drink shakes nearby for quick energy.

Looking for an immunity boost?
Check out our Raspberry Orange Smoothie for a quick and easy snack that’s rich in antioxidants and vitamin C!

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Refueling after a workout

Whether you’ve just finished a light home workout or an intense tennis match, proper nutrition is essential for recovery and replenishing energy. Keep in mind that people with CF already have higher caloric needs, and regular exercise increases those needs even more.

The triple threat

Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are the three essential macronutrients—each playing their own essential role in exercise nutrition.

Carbohydrates
One of the main sources of energy for exercise is carbohydrates! To keep your body fueled, make sure to include carbohydrates in all your meals and snacks when exercising to maintain adequate glycogen stores. Starchy foods like potatoes, pasta, rice, and bread are excellent sources of complex carbohydrates. Sugary foods like muffins, chocolate, and granola bars offer a quick energy boost when needed.
Proteins
Essential for muscle growth and repair, protein is essential when   exercising. If you eat a balanced diet with quality protein sources,   you likely won’t need supplements. However, protein powders and supplements can be convenient and portable when access to whole food is limited.
Fats
An important calorie source, incorporating fats into meals and snacks can prevent any energy deficit (or weight loss) from exercise. Some post-workout snacks high in fat and protein include avocado toast topped with egg, full-fat greek yogurt parfait, or beef jerky.

Fluids, fluids, fluids!

Make sure you drink extra fluids when you’re working out! Water will always be the go-to, but electrolyte drinks and chocolate milk can also help replenish salt, fluids, and carbohydrates after exercise. Remember that your fluid and salt requirements depend on the intensity, duration, and frequency of your exercise!

Not sure what to make to meet your protein needs?
our Stir-Fried Chicken, Eggs, and Wild Rice is an easy dish to put  together with almost 50 grams of protein per serving. Check out our Rainbow Veggie Wraps for a plant-based alternative!

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