The nurse is caring for a young woman who is breastfeeding and will need to increase her intake of calories and protein.
The nurse suggests which foods are healthy sources of protein?

Choice A rationale

Introducing whole milk at 6 months is generally too early. At this age, an infant's primary nutrition should still come from breast milk or formula, which are specifically formulated to meet their developmental needs. The infant's digestive system is still maturing and may not be fully ready to process the higher protein and fat content of whole cow's milk.

Choice B rationale

Transitioning to whole milk at 8 months is also typically premature. While some infants might show readiness signs earlier, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting until closer to 12 months. Introducing whole milk too soon can displace the intake of breast milk or formula, potentially leading to deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron.

Choice C rationale

Waiting until 10 months is closer to the recommended timeframe, but most guidelines still advise waiting until 12 months. This allows the infant's digestive system more time to mature and ensures they receive optimal nutrition from breast milk or formula for a longer duration. Early introduction of whole milk doesn't offer any significant nutritional advantages over breast milk or formula during this period.

Choice D rationale

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends transitioning to whole cow's milk around 12 months of age for most infants. By this time, their digestive system is more mature and capable of handling the nutrients in whole milk. Additionally, most infants at this age are consuming a wider variety of solid foods, which helps ensure they are meeting their nutritional needs beyond just milk.

Choice A rationale

Memory loss is more commonly associated with neurological conditions, vitamin B12 deficiency, or aging, rather than a lack of dietary fiber. Fiber primarily affects the digestive system and blood sugar control, not cognitive function.

Choice B rationale

Bleeding gums are typically a sign of vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) or poor oral hygiene leading to gingivitis. While overall nutrition is important for oral health, a lack of fiber specifically does not directly cause bleeding gums.

Choice C rationale

Brittle hair can be a symptom of various nutritional deficiencies, including protein, biotin, and iron, but it is not a primary indicator of inadequate fiber intake. Fiber mainly impacts bowel function and glucose metabolism.

Choice D rationale

Constipation, characterized by infrequent or difficult bowel movements, is a well-established consequence of inadequate dietary fiber intake. Fiber adds bulk to the stool, absorbs water, and facilitates peristalsis, the muscular contractions that move stool through the intestines. A lack of fiber can lead to harder, drier stools that are more difficult to pass. .