An active 25-year-old female client shared with the nurse that ever si

An active 25-year-old female client shared with the nurse that ever since she had gone on a high-protein low-carbohydrate diet she had suffered from constipation.

The client states that the diet is working for her in terms of weight loss and would like to stay on it. The best response from the nurse is that the client should try:
1. Consuming more low-carbohydrate fiber-rich foods like broccoli, raspberries, blackberries, and asparagus
2. Taking a laxative when feeling constipated
3. Try a different diet with less tendency to cause constipation
4. Exercise more

ANSWER

ANS: 1
A low-fiber diet high in animal fats (e.g., meats, dairy products, eggs) can slow peristalsis, lead-ing to constipation. By consuming fiber-rich low-carbohydrate foods, the client can still maintain weight loss while avoiding constipation. The client could develop a dependence on laxatives by using them on a regular basis. The client has expressed a desire to remain on the diet she is cur-rently on, and it seems to be working to help her lose weight. Because client is already active, additional activity is not likely to have a profound effect on relieving the constipation.