Cystic fibrosis doctors

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Cystic fibrosis treatment

How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that predominantly impacts the lungs but can also affect the pancreas, liver, kidneys, and intestine. Long-term health issues include difficulty breathing and frequent lung infections due to thick mucus. While it's considered a challenging condition, advancements in treatment have significantly improved quality of life and life expectancy. The prevalence of CF varies worldwide, with the highest rates found in Europe and North America.

Causes

Cystic fibrosis is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which regulates the movement of salt and water in and out of cells. This leads to thick, sticky mucus in various organs. It's an autosomal recessive disease, meaning a child needs to inherit a mutated gene from each parent to develop CF.

Signs and symptoms

- Persistent coughing, at times with phlegm - Frequent lung infections - Wheezing or shortness of breath - Very salty-tasting skin - Poor growth or weight gain in spite of a good appetite - Frequent greasy, bulky stools or difficulty in bowel movements

Diagnosing Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis is typically diagnosed through newborn screening and confirmed with a sweat test and genetic testing. The sweat test measures the concentration of salt in the sweat, which is often higher in individuals with CF. Genetic testing can identify mutations in the CFTR gene, offering a conclusive diagnosis.

Prevention and natural treatment

While prevention of cystic fibrosis is not possible due to its genetic nature, functional medicine offers a route to managing the condition and improving the quality of life through natural means alongside conventional treatments. Emphasis is placed on a nutrient-rich diet that addresses specific deficiencies common in CF, such as fat-soluble vitamins. Pancreatic enzyme supplements and a high-calorie diet may be recommended to improve digestion and nutrient absorption. Respiratory therapy, including exercises and techniques to loosen mucus, can be highly beneficial. Regular, gentle exercise helps to clear mucus from the lungs, improve overall physical condition, and enhance immunity. Staying hydrated is crucial as it helps thin the mucus, making it easier to clear. Natural anti-inflammatories, like omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, can support lung health. Probiotics and fermented foods may improve gut health and enhance nutrient absorption, addressing the gastrointestinal symptoms of CF. Despite the genetic basis of CF, integrating functional medicine approaches with conventional care opens pathways to manage symptoms more naturally, potentially reducing medication dependence and minimizing side effects. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or making significant lifestyle changes.

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