Impact Protein intake on growth in Cystic Fibrosis

Children with cystic fibrosis (CF) have less net protein anabolism than
children without CF, and the result is retarded growth in the CF patients.
Numerous factors are likely to contribute to growth impairment and delayed
puberty in children with CF. The major factors that adversely affect growth are
malnutrition (from malabsorption, inadequate intake and increased
requirements), chronic inflammation, diabetes mellitus, liver disease, lung
disease and corticosteroid treatment. The protein intake above that recommended
by the CF Foundation would further stimulate whole-body protein synthesis.

The primary objective of this study is to establish the clinically relevance of
extra protein supplementation on the height growth at children with Cystic
Fibrosis. The secondary objectives of this study are to measure the effects of
protein supplementation on the lean body mass by CF children with a retarded
growth.

The study is a cross-over randomized controlled trial, which each patient
served as his or her own control subject for protein supplementation.

Each patient will receive in random order above the normal recommended feeding
intake 2 g protein extra * kg*1 * d*1 in the form of protein powder. The
energy, fat and carbohydrate intakes stay the same. Each patient crossing over
in effect serves as their own control. The data are analyzed according to the
original intention to treat.

Subjects are expected for 3 à 4 months for a control, additional to this
control for this study the body composition will be measured with the BIA and
the growth will be determined with different parameters. Before this control is
kept up a 3dd food record. (Appendix I)
The protein supplement is a commercially available safe protein powder. No
risks are involved.