A nurse is caring for a 30-month-old toddler and is preparing a nutritional snack. Which of the following foods is appropriate for the nurse to offer the toddler?

A. "I should report any tingling I feel around my mouth. Tingling around the mouth, known as perioral paresthesia, is a classic symptom of hypocalcemia and can indicate worsening calcium deficiency or the onset of tetany. This symptom must be reported immediately because it suggests neuromuscular irritability that can progress to serious complications like laryngospasm or seizures if left untreated.
B. "I should take a 2,500-milligram calcium supplement every day." A daily calcium supplement of 2,500 mg exceeds the recommended upper limit for most adults, which is about 2,000 mg per day from supplements. Excessive calcium intake can lead to hypercalcemia, kidney stones, and other complications. Supplement dosage should be based on individual needs and prescribed by a healthcare provider.
C. "I should avoid dairy products, including cheese: Dairy products such as cheese, milk, and yogurt are rich sources of dietary calcium. Avoiding them would reduce calcium intake, which is counterproductive for a client with hypocalcemia. Unless contraindicated due to lactose intolerance or allergies, these foods are encouraged to help manage low calcium levels.
D. "I should expect my blood pressure to be very low." Hypocalcemia does not typically result in very low blood pressure. In fact, it more commonly causes neuromuscular symptoms such as muscle cramps, tetany, and tingling sensations. Low calcium levels may have some cardiovascular effects, but persistent hypotension is not a hallmark feature of hypocalcemia.

A. "Supplement your diet with 400 micrograms of folic acid. Folic acid is essential for preventing neural tube defects in fetal development and plays a role in red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. However, it is not directly associated with the prevention or treatment of osteoporosis.
B. "Adhere to a low-protein diet." A low-protein diet is not advisable for individuals at risk for osteoporosis. Adequate protein intake is necessary for bone matrix formation and maintenance of muscle mass, which supports skeletal strength. Extremely low protein can impair calcium absorption and negatively affect bone density, increasing fracture risk.
C. "Add more leafy greens to your diet." Leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach, and broccoli are rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, all of which support bone health and help in maintaining bone density. These nutrients play a crucial role in bone remodeling and reducing the risk of fractures in individuals susceptible to osteoporosis.
D. "Increase your dietary fiber intake." While fiber is important for digestive health and reducing cholesterol, it does not have a significant direct effect on bone mineral density or osteoporosis prevention. Excessive fiber intake, especially from supplements, may even interfere with calcium absorption, making it less ideal for those at risk of osteoporosis.