Final answer:
Mrs. Cooper can decrease health risks by focusing on cost-effective nutrient-dense foods, utilizing meal planning to reduce costs, and taking advantage of community resources like food pantries.
Step-by-step explanation:
To decrease Mrs. Cooper's risk of complicating her pre-existing disease conditions while on a fixed income, a plan utilizing medical nutrition therapy (MNT) principles is essential. Three key recommendations in crafting this plan are:
- Focus on cost-effective nutrient-dense foods like beans, lentils, oats, and frozen vegetables that provide essential nutrients without a high price tag.
- Implement meal planning and preparation strategies. This includes bulk cooking, utilizing leftovers creatively, and minimizing food waste to stretch the food budget while maintaining proper nutrition.
- Utilize community resources and support, such as local food pantries or community gardens, which can provide access to affordable or free nutritional food options.
By stressing the importance of these components, Mrs. Cooper can meet her nutritional needs in a budget-friendly manner. Additionally, education can play a significant role in nutritional wellness, including leveraging programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to maximize food resources.