A nurse is selecting food items for a client who follows a lacto-vegetarian diet. Which of the following foods should the nurse include in the meal?

Choice A reason: Limiting high-calorie supplements to between meals is not a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can reduce the appetite and intake of regular meals, which are more nutritious and balanced. High-calorie supplements should be used as an addition to, not a replacement for, regular meals.

Choice B reason: Avoiding overeating during 'good' days is not a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can cause discomfort, nausea, or vomiting, which can worsen anorexia and affect the tolerance of radiation therapy. Eating should be based on hunger and satiety cues, not on good or bad days.

Choice C reason: Consuming nutrition-dense foods first is a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can ensure adequate intake of calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals, which are essential for healing and recovery. Nutrition-dense foods are those that provide high amounts of nutrients per serving, such as eggs, cheese, nuts, beans, and meat.

Choice D reason: Eating hot foods rather than cold foods is not a good strategy for managing anorexia while receiving radiation therapy because it can irritate the mouth and throat, which may be inflamed or sore due to radiation therapy. Cold foods are more soothing and refreshing for the mouth and throat, such as ice cream, yogurt, smoothies, and popsicles.

Choice A reason: Consuming ten percent of total calories from saturated fat is not a part of the DASH diet because it is too high for most adults. The DASH diet recommends consuming less than seven percent of total calories from saturated fat, which translates to about 16 g of saturated fat per day for an average adult who consumes 2,000 calories per day.

Choice B reason: Consuming foods that are high in calcium is a part of the DASH diet because it can help lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the force of contraction of the heart. The DASH diet recommends consuming 1,000 to 1,200 mg of calcium per day, which can be obtained from dairy products, leafy greens, beans, nuts, and fortified foods.

Choice C reason: Increasing intake of refined carbohydrates is not a part of the DASH diet because it can raise blood sugar and insulin levels, which can increase blood pressure and damage the blood vessels. The DASH diet recommends consuming 45 to 55 percent of total calories from carbohydrates, but mostly from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which are rich in fiber and antioxidants.

Choice D reason: Limiting sodium intake to 3,200 milligrams per day is not a part of the DASH diet because it is too high for most adults. The DASH diet recommends limiting sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams per day or less, which can help lower blood pressure by reducing fluid retention and vascular resistance.