A nurse is caring for a client who is malnourished. The client states, "When I do eat, I usually just eat bread and butter to get something in me." The nurse should recognize that the client is at risk for which of the following complications?

Choice A reason: The standard DASH diet limits sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams per day, which is about the amount of sodium in 1 teaspoon of table salt¹. A lower sodium version of DASH restricts sodium to 1,500 milligrams per day, which may lower blood pressure even further¹. Therefore, limiting sodium intake to 3,200 milligrams per day is not consistent with the DASH diet.

Choice B reason: The DASH diet recommends eating fewer refined carbohydrates and less sugar, as they can increase blood pressure and cholesterol levels². Instead, the DASH diet emphasizes eating more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, which are rich in fiber, potassium, calcium, and magnesium².

Choice C reason: The DASH diet encourages consuming foods that are high in calcium, such as fat-free or low-fat dairy products, fish, beans, and nuts¹. Calcium is a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and supports bone health³. Studies have shown that increasing calcium intake can lower blood pressure in people with hypertension³.

Choice D reason: The DASH diet advises limiting foods that are high in saturated fat, such as fatty meats, full-fat dairy products, and tropical oils such as coconut, palm kernel, and palm oils¹. Saturated fat can raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. The DASH diet recommends consuming no more than six percent of total calories from saturated fat¹.

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.