Discussion Forums > Diet, Nutrition and Supplements

Calories

(1/2) > >>

Nomad:
Hello Andy and all,
I was searching the web about "calories requirement " in β'thal but didn't really find something. So my question, does anyone know how much- except for diabetics of course. I've heard something about 4000! kcal daily?! Which on the other hand make sense, since we do need more energy... still sounds a little too much.  :huh

Nomad:
Andy? Any idea about it?

Andy Battaglia:
There are references to a higher caloric requirement for thals in many articles, and many suggest that insufficient calories are partly to blame for poor growth among thal children, but I have not found any specific suggestion for caloric intake by thals. Just as important as calories though, is proper nutrition, as thals tend to test low in almost all nutrient categories. So, it isn't just how much you eat. It's what you eat. Empty calories should be avoided and nutritious foods should be the only thing thals are eating.

There is an excellent article about nutrients and thals at http://thalassemia.com/documents/articles.Fung-2012-Nutritional-Deficiencies-in-Thalassemia.pdf

Nomad:

Sharmin:
Hello Nomad,

I don't think there is a specified number of calories for thalassemia patients. I think it should be determined on an individual basis.  I agree with Andy that while growing, many thals require additional calories to help them maximize their height potential.   Thals, like the general population, should wat healthy balanced diets.  They should focus on getting adequate zinc (and other vitamins/minerals) in their diets.  Calories per say should be based on whether an individual is under weight. 

I often hear that thals experience lack of appetite just before transfusions.  Perhaps at such times a nutritional/caloric supplement may be helpful. 

Navigation

[0] Message Index

[#] Next page