A nurse is providing teaching about the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet to a client who has hypertension. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

Choice A reason: 1 slice of bread is equivalent to 1 oz of grains, not protein. Bread is a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and B vitamins, but it does not provide enough protein for a toddler.

Choice B reason: 1 scrambled egg is equivalent to 1 oz of protein. Egg is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body cannot make. Egg is also a good source of iron, choline, and vitamin D.

Choice C reason: 1/2 cup peas is equivalent to 1/2 oz of protein and 1/2 cup of vegetables. Peas are an incomplete protein, meaning they lack some essential amino acids. Peas are also a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and folate.

Choice D reason: 2 tbsp peanut butter is equivalent to 2 oz of protein. Peanut butter is an incomplete protein, but it can be combined with bread or crackers to form a complete protein. Peanut butter is also a good source of fat, magnesium, and niacin.

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.