-Retinol (vitamin A) promotes good vision, including night vision. It is an antioxidant, which means it wards off anything that would attempt to consume oxygen in the blood. It also helps prevent osteoporosis.
-Vitamin D is especially important for a person with CF when it comes to maintaining bone density. In the absence of vitamin D, osteoporosis may occur. Without a strong skeletal structure, good posture is compromised making airway clearance more difficult. This in turn leads to increased frequency of lung infections.
-Vitamin E, an antioxidant, is integral in the formation of red blood cells. Blood that is well oxygenated helps maintain good pulmonary function.
-Vitamin K, also known as mephyton, helps maintain bone density as well as promote blood coagulation. Although this vitamin is synthesized naturally in the intestines, the amount is not enough. Like vitamin D, mephyton is useful in preventing osteoporosis.
Each of these vitamins work together, which is why the body requires specific amounts of each. People with cystic fibrosis should have the doctor frequently monitor their vitamin levels to ensure proper nutritional status.