Despite talk about obese Americans and their need to lose weight, some people with disabilities require an increased caloric intake to stay healthy. This can be the case for persons with athetoid cerebral palsy whose uncontrolled and involuntary movements can lead to greater energy expenditure, and individuals with cystic fibrosis, whose problems with lung function and digesting food may require a greater nutrient intake to maintain weight.

For suggestions on increasing caloric intake and snack ideas, go to http://www.ncpad.org/307/1908/Sometimes~It~s~Necessary~to~Gain~Weight.