Diet and Nutrition Advice for CAH

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA

Raising a child with a medical condition like congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is a challenge! This is especially true when it comes to managing their diet and nutrition. CAH is a complex condition that affects the adrenal glands. Proper dietary management is an important part of helping your child lead a healthy and active life. Looking for a practical guide with tips on how to support your child’s nutrition? Look no further. PatientsLikeMe is here to help you understand their needs and make it easier to pass this knowledge on to them as they grow.

Understanding CAH

CAH affects the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys. These glands produce important hormones, including cortisol, aldosterone, and androgens. In children with CAH, the production of these hormones is disrupted, which can lead to various health issues. The severity of CAH can vary, and different children may have different dietary needs based on their specific condition. One of the most significant concerns with CAH is the body's ability to manage stress and regulate salt levels. Because of this, diet and nutrition are key factors in managing the condition effectively.

Why Diet and Nutrition Matter

Diet and nutrition are essential for children with CAH for several reasons.

1. Managing Weight: Children with CAH are at a higher risk of gaining weight, especially if they are taking glucocorticoid medications. These medications are needed to manage the condition but can increase appetite and cause weight gain.
2. Supporting Hormone Balance: The right diet can help support the balance of hormones in your child’s body. Proper nutrition can assist in managing symptoms and reducing the risk of complications.
3. Preventing Adrenal Crises: An adrenal crisis is a serious medical emergency that can happen if cortisol levels drop too low. Ensuring your child has a balanced diet with enough salt can help prevent these crises.

Nutritional Guidelines for Children with CAH

So what can you do? The first step is to make sure your child’s diet includes a variety of foods from all the food groups. A balanced diet provides the nutrients your child needs to grow and develop properly. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. For children with salt-losing CAH, make sure they get enough salt! Foods like soups, broths, and salted snacks can help. However, it’s important to find the right balance - too much salt can lead to high blood pressure. Ensuring the right balance of salt in the diet is crucial and should be managed with your child's physician, considering their overall medical condition and medications.

Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration is important, especially if they are active or live in a hot climate. Children with CAH who take glucocorticoid medications may be at risk for bone density loss. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, fortified foods, and supplements if necessary.

Help your child choose healthy snacks that provide energy and nutrition without excessive sugar or unhealthy fats. Fruits, nuts, yogurt, and whole-grain crackers are good options. Encourage regular meal times to help regulate your child’s metabolism and maintain stable energy levels throughout the day. Skipping meals can lead to blood sugar imbalances, which can be problematic for children with CAH.

Acne? CAH Symptom. Gaining weight? Side effect. It can be tough to tell apart symptoms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and treatment side effects of steroids apart.

Watch now: Is it a symptom or a side effect?

Your body may feel out of whack when living with CAH. Too little cortisol can make you feel tired or unwell and high androgen levels can cause early puberty, premature growth, and more. Treating CAH with high-dose steroids can cause side effects like weight gain, diabetes, and bone density issues. See why it’s important to talk to your doctor about what you’re experiencing and your treatment plan.

Questions about CAH symptoms and/or side effects from high-dose steroids? Visit: WhatTheCAH to learn more.
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Exercise and Physical Activity

Exercise is important for children with CAH. It helps with weight management, strengthens bones, and improves overall health. There are no specific restrictions on physical activity for children with CAH, but it's important to ensure they are getting enough exercise. Encourage activities they enjoy, whether it's team sports, dancing, swimming, or simply playing outside. However, during times of intense physical activity or stress, your child may need an additional dose of their medication. Always consult with your child's doctor to determine the best approach.

Dealing with Challenges

As with any chronic condition, there will be challenges in managing CAH.

1. Appetite Changes: Your child may go through changes in appetite due to their medication. Work with a dietitian to create a meal plan.
2. Food Cravings: Some children with CAH may crave sugary or salty foods. Teach them about moderation and encourage healthier alternatives that satisfy these cravings without dipping too far into the world of junk food. Involve your child in shopping, meal planning, and cooking. This can make them more interested in healthy eating and give them a sense of control over their diet.
3. Social Eating: Social events, such as birthday parties or school lunches, can be hard to navigate. Help your child make smart choices by discussing what foods might be available and planning how they can enjoy the event while sticking to their dietary needs.
4. Positive Body Image: Weight management can be a sensitive topic, especially for adolescents. Focus on the importance of health rather than appearance. Encourage your child to engage in activities they enjoy and praise their efforts to stay healthy.

Managing diet and nutrition for a child with CAH is an ongoing process. It takes attention, patience, and communication. This guide can help you support your child and manage their condition. Remember, you are not alone! Reach out to support groups, counselors, and medical professionals whenever you need advice or assistance.