How to Gain Weight with Pulmonary Fibrosis? A Nutritional Guide

October 14, 2025 •

4 min read

A study revealed that up to 47.4% of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) may experience malnutrition. Learning how to gain weight with pulmonary fibrosis is crucial for maintaining energy, strength, and overall well-being.

Quick Summary

This guide outlines effective dietary strategies for patients with pulmonary fibrosis struggling with weight loss. It covers methods for increasing calorie and protein intake through small, frequent meals and nutrient-dense foods, alongside tips for managing common eating-related symptoms.

Key Points

Small, frequent meals: Eat 6-8 smaller, more frequent meals and snacks daily to manage breathlessness and fullness effectively.
Boost calories in meals: Use full-fat dairy, extra oils, butter, or nut butters to increase calorie density in foods without adding bulk.
Prioritize protein intake: Include a protein source like lean meat, fish, or eggs in every meal to maintain and build crucial muscle mass.
Choose calorie-dense beverages: Opt for milk, smoothies, or nutritional shakes instead of water with meals to increase caloric intake.
Consult a dietitian: Seek professional guidance from a registered dietitian to create a personalized, safe, and effective weight gain nutrition plan.
Manage symptoms proactively: Address eating challenges like fatigue, nausea, or breathlessness with strategies like easy-to-prepare meals, moist foods, and smart snacking.
Monitor your progress regularly: Weigh yourself consistently to track your weight and strength, and report any significant changes to your healthcare team.

The Link Between Pulmonary Fibrosis and Weight Loss

For many living with pulmonary fibrosis (PF), unintentional weight loss is a significant concern. This can occur for several reasons. The body of a PF patient expends more energy simply to breathe, leading to a higher daily calorie requirement. Fatigue, a common symptom, can also reduce the motivation to cook and eat. Furthermore, medication side effects such as nausea or diarrhea can suppress appetite and hinder nutrient absorption. The resulting malnutrition and loss of muscle mass can further weaken the body, creating a cycle that can worsen outcomes and reduce mobility. For these reasons, managing nutritional intake is a fundamental aspect of PF management.

Dietary Strategies to Combat Weight Loss

Adopting specific eating habits can make a considerable difference in reversing weight loss and building strength. The key is to increase the amount of calories and protein consumed without overstretching the body's resources. Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day is a cornerstone of this approach, helping to prevent the breathlessness and overwhelming fullness that can result from large meals.

Maximize Nutrient Density and Caloric Intake

Fortify your meals: One of the most effective strategies is to add extra calories to the foods you already eat. This can be done by mixing full-fat milk powder into milk-based drinks, soups, mashed potatoes, or porridge. You can also add extra butter, margarine, or oils to vegetables, potatoes, and sauces.
Choose full-fat options: Substitute low-fat or diet products with full-fat versions, such as whole milk yogurt, full-fat cheese, and whole milk.
Prioritize protein: Protein is vital for maintaining and building muscle mass. Aim to include a protein source with every meal and snack, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
Snack smart: Use snacks as opportunities to consume extra calories. Good options include nuts, seeds, peanut butter on toast, cheese and crackers, or avocado on bread.

Address Symptom-Related Eating Issues

Combat fatigue: When fatigue makes cooking difficult, rely on easy-to-prepare options. Keep a supply of frozen dinners, canned beans, rice pudding, and microwaveable meals on hand. Tools like slow cookers can also simplify meal preparation.
Manage nausea: If nausea is a problem, try eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding strong-smelling foods. Cold foods like salads or sandwiches can be easier to tolerate. Ginger or peppermint can also help settle the stomach.
Overcome breathlessness: Eat slowly and take small bites, sitting upright while you eat. If you get out of breath while talking, avoid speaking during meals. Moister, easier-to-chew foods may be more manageable.
Handle reflux: Eat smaller meals more frequently and avoid eating too close to bedtime. Staying upright for at least an hour after eating can also help.

A High-Calorie Food Comparison Table


Low-Calorie Option	High-Calorie Alternative	Benefit for PF Patients
Skim Milk	Whole Milk or Fortified Milk	Provides extra calories and nutrients.
Low-Fat Yogurt	Full-Fat Greek Yogurt	Higher in calories and protein.
Plain Toast	Toast with Peanut Butter, Avocado, or Cheese	Adds substantial calories and healthy fats.
Steamed Vegetables	Vegetables with Butter, Olive Oil, or Cheese	Boosts caloric content without increasing bulk.
Water	Juice, Milk, or Nutritional Shakes	Provides calories and energy instead of just hydration.

The Importance of Professional Guidance and Monitoring

Working with a healthcare team is essential for developing a personalized and safe nutrition plan. A doctor can help determine your specific needs and a registered dietitian can provide a detailed, tailored diet based on your health status, age, weight, and lifestyle. Regular monitoring of your weight and strength is crucial for tracking progress and identifying any issues early.

In some cases, a doctor or dietitian may recommend nutritional supplements, such as high-calorie, high-protein shakes (e.g., Ensure or Boost). Vitamin supplements, including D, C, E, and zinc, are also being explored for their potential benefits in PF, but should only be taken under medical guidance due to potential risks with high doses.

Conclusion

Unintentional weight loss is a serious issue for individuals with pulmonary fibrosis, but it can be effectively managed with the right nutritional approach. By focusing on small, frequent, and nutrient-dense meals and snacks, patients can increase their calorie and protein intake while minimizing symptoms like breathlessness and fatigue. A high-calorie diet, prioritizing healthy fats and protein, is key to regaining strength and improving overall well-being. Always work with your healthcare team to create a personalized plan and consider consulting a registered dietitian for expert advice.

For more information and support on managing the complexities of pulmonary fibrosis, you can visit the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. Their resources can offer valuable guidance for patients and caregivers navigating this condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Weight loss in people with pulmonary fibrosis is often caused by a combination of factors, including increased energy expenditure due to difficulty breathing, fatigue, and a reduced appetite. Medication side effects can also contribute to weight loss.

It is often recommended to eat 6 to 8 small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day. This approach helps to increase calorie intake without overwhelming the system or causing breathlessness from a full stomach.

You can add extra calories by incorporating high-fat options like whole milk, full-fat yogurt, avocado, and nuts. Adding butter or olive oil to cooked vegetables and using milk powder to fortify drinks and dishes are also effective methods.

To increase protein, try to include a protein source in each meal and snack. Good sources include lean meats, fish, eggs, cheese, and yogurt. You can also add protein powder to smoothies for an extra boost.

Instead of only drinking water with meals, consider calorie-dense beverages like milk, juice, or smoothies. These options provide additional energy and nutrients. It is best to drink between meals to avoid feeling too full before you eat.

Yes, nutritional supplement drinks (like Ensure or Boost) can be helpful, especially if you have a low appetite. These can provide extra calories and protein with minimal effort. Your healthcare provider can advise if these are appropriate for you.

To manage fatigue, prepare meals in advance using tools like slow cookers, or rely on easy-to-prepare foods like frozen dinners and canned items. It can also be helpful to keep a stock of simple, nutrient-dense snacks on hand.