A 5' 3" (1.6 meter) 113-pound (51.3 kg) client has a lipid profile of total cholesterol 267 mg/dL (6.92 mmol/L), LDL 167 mg/dL (4.33 mmol/L), HDL 85 mg/dL (2.2 mmol/L), triglycerides 79 mg/dL (0.89 mmol/L), and VLDL 16 mg/dL (0.41 mmol/L). Based on these findings, it is most important for the nurse to teach the client to make every effort to completely avoid which foods?

Reference Range

Total Cholesterol [Reference Range: less than 200 mg/dL]

Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL) [Reference Range: less than 130 mg/dL]

High Density Lipoproteins (HDL) [Reference Range: Male: greater than 45 mg/dL or greater than 0.75 mmol/L] Very Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (VLDL) [Reference Range: 12 to 30 mg/dL or 0.31 to 0.78 mmol/L]

Choice A 

Nuts is incorrect. Nuts are a good source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can actually have a positive impact on heart health. They have been associated with improving HDL cholesterol levels and can be a part of a heart-healthy diet. While nuts are calorie-dense, small portions can be included as part of the client's diet to replace less healthy snacks. Therefore, nuts might not need to be completely avoided.

Choice B 

 Shellfish Is incorrect. Shellfish, including shrimp, crab, and lobster, are relatively low in saturated fat and cholesterol. While they do contain cholesterol, dietary cholesterol has less impact on blood cholesterol levels compared to saturated and trans fats. The client's main concern is elevated LDL cholesterol, which is influenced more by saturated fat intake. Therefore, avoiding shellfish might not be as crucial as focusing on saturated fat sources.

Choice C 

Eggs is incorrect. Eggs are a source of dietary cholesterol, but they also provide essential nutrients. Recent research suggests that dietary cholesterol from foods like eggs has less impact on blood cholesterol levels for most people than was previously thought. For the client, the more significant concern is the elevated LDL cholesterol level. If the client enjoys eggs, they might not need to completely avoid them, but they should consume them in moderation and consider other dietary changes to reduce saturated fat intake.

Choice D 

Cheese is correct. Cheese is often high in saturated fats, which can contribute to elevated LDL cholesterol levels. Therefore, it would be important for the client to limit their intake of high-fat cheeses.