Penn Herb Wellness Guide
Cystic Fibrosis
- Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
- Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
- For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
| Supplement | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Lipase | Up to 10,000 IU daily per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) body weight or 500 to 1,000 lipase units per gram of fat consumed in the diet |  [3 stars] People with cystic fibrosis tend to have insufficient pancreas function. Supplementing with pancreatic enzymes will often lead to improved digestion, especially of fats. |
Vitamin A | 5,000 to 10,000 IU daily | [3 stars] The fat malabsorption associated with cystic fibrosis often leads to a deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin A. Supplementing with this vitamin can help counteract the deficiency. |
Vitamin D | 1,000 to 2,000 IU daily | [3 stars] The fat malabsorption associated with cystic fibrosis often leads to a deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin D. Supplementation can help counteract the deficiency. |
Fish Oil | 2.7 grams of EPA daily |  [2 stars] The impaired fat digestion in people with cystic fibrosis often leads to a deficiency of essential fatty acids, which may lead to increased risk of respiratory infection. This deficiency may be reversed by fish oil supplementation. |
Taurine | 30 mg per 2.2 lbs (1 kg) of body weight daily | [2 stars] Taurine is an amino acid and a component of bile acids, which are important for proper fat digestion. Supplementing with taurine may help improve fat digestion. |
Vitamin K | 5 mg every three days | [2 stars] The fat malabsorption associated with cystic fibrosis often leads to a deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin K. Supplementation can help counteract the deficiency. |
Vitamin E | Refer to label instructions |  [1 star] The fat malabsorption associated with cystic fibrosis often leads to a deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin E. Supplementation can help counteract the deficiency. |
Zinc | Refer to label instructions | [1 star] The malabsorption produced by cystic fibrosis may adversely affect zinc absorption. Supplementing with zinc can help counteract this deficiency. |
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.