Final answer:
Addison's patients should generally avoid salt substitutes due to the risk of hyperkalemia. These patients need to be careful with their sodium and potassium levels, and any changes to their diet should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question 'Can Addison's patients have salt substitutes?' relates to the dietary management of Addison's disease, a condition characterized by insufficient production of hormones by the adrenal glands. For patients with Addison's disease, managing sodium intake is crucial because their bodies cannot produce enough aldosterone, the hormone that helps regulate salt and water balance. Salt substitutes are often high in potassium, which can be dangerous for Addison's patients because they are already at risk of developing hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) due to their condition.
The safest answer is b. No, patients with Addison's disease should generally not use salt substitutes unless specifically advised by their healthcare provider. Adequate supervision and regular blood tests to monitor electrolyte levels are important when making any dietary changes, including the use of salt substitutes.