A nurse is assessing a client who is in the second trimester of pregnancy and has a BMI within the expected reference range. Which of the following assessment findings indicates that the client will gain weight within the expected reference range?

Choice A reason: Nuts are not a complete protein, as they are low in the essential amino acid lysine¹. However, nuts can be combined with other plant-based foods, such as grains or legumes, to form a complete protein.

Choice B reason: Eggs are a complete protein, as they contain all nine essential amino acids in adequate amounts². Eggs are also a good source of protein, with about 6 grams per egg³.

Choice C reason: Poultry, such as chicken, turkey, or duck, is a complete protein, as it contains all nine essential amino acids in sufficient amounts⁴. Poultry is also a lean source of protein, with about 25 grams per 3-ounce serving.

Choice D reason: Legumes, such as beans, peas, or lentils, are not a complete protein, as they are low in the essential amino acid methionine. However, legumes can be combined with other plant-based foods, such as grains or nuts, to form a complete protein.

Choice E reason: Grains, such as wheat, rice, or oats, are not a complete protein, as they are low in the essential amino acid lysine. However, grains can be combined with other plant-based foods, such as legumes or nuts, to form a complete protein.

Choice D reason: A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day can result in a weight loss of about 0.45 kg (1 lb) per week, which is a safe and realistic goal for most clients. A pound of fat contains about 3,500 calories, so reducing the daily intake by 500 calories can create a deficit of 3,500 calories per week.

Choice A reason: A weight loss of 0.45 kg (1 lb) per day is too rapid and unhealthy, as it can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, muscle loss, and metabolic slowdown. It can also be unsustainable and lead to weight regain. A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day cannot achieve such a drastic weight loss.

Choice B reason: A weight loss of 0.23 kg (0.5 lb) per day is also too rapid and unhealthy, for the same reasons as choice A. A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day cannot achieve such a drastic weight loss.

Choice C reason: A weight loss of 0.23 kg (0.5 lb) per week is too slow and unlikely, as it would require a calorie reduction of only 250 fewer calories per day. This is not enough to create a significant deficit and stimulate weight loss. A calorie reduction of 500 fewer calories per day can result in a faster weight loss.