A nurse is teaching a client who has anemia about beverages that enhance the absorption of nonheme iron. Which of the following beverages should the nurse include in the teaching?

A) "Protein requirements decrease in times of stress": This statement is incorrect. During times of stress, such as illness or injury, the body's protein requirements often increase to support tissue repair, immune function, and other metabolic processes. Therefore, protein requirements typically increase rather than decrease during periods of stress.

B) "Glucose is broken down more slowly during times of stress": This statement is also incorrect. During stress, the body releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which promote the breakdown of glycogen into glucose, providing a quick energy source for the body's response to stress. Therefore, glucose is broken down more rapidly during times of stress to meet the increased energy demands.

C) "Acute stress causes an increase in metabolism": This statement is accurate. Acute stress triggers the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can increase metabolism. These hormones stimulate processes such as gluconeogenesis (the production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources), lipolysis (the breakdown of fats), and increased heart rate and blood pressure, all of which contribute to an increase in metabolic rate during acute stress.

D) "Stress causes a positive nitrogen balance in the body": This statement is incorrect. Stress, particularly severe or prolonged stress, can lead to a negative nitrogen balance in the body. During stress, there may be increased protein breakdown to provide amino acids for energy production and other metabolic needs. Additionally, stress can impair protein synthesis and utilization, leading to muscle wasting and a negative nitrogen balance.

A) Increased glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is not an indication of a successful weight loss program. In fact, it typically indicates poor blood sugar control and may suggest worsening diabetes management or insulin resistance. Successful weight loss and improved lifestyle habits should lead to better blood sugar control and a reduction in HbA1c levels.

B) Increased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is not an indication of a successful weight loss program. Elevated LDL cholesterol levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and are often a target for reduction in weight management interventions. Therefore, successful weight loss should be associated with a decrease in LDL cholesterol levels.

C) Increased total cholesterol levels are not indicative of a successful weight loss program. High cholesterol levels, especially when accompanied by elevated LDL cholesterol and decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Successful weight loss should lead to improvements in lipid profiles, including reductions in total cholesterol levels.

D) Increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is an indication of a successful weight loss program. HDL cholesterol, often referred to as "good" cholesterol, plays a protective role in cardiovascular health by helping to remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transporting it to the liver for excretion. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Therefore, an increase in HDL cholesterol levels following a weight loss program suggests improved cardiovascular health and metabolic outcomes.