Final answer:
The nurse advises Sarah to consume an oral nutrition supplement to ensure adequate nutrition due to poor appetite and potential malabsorption caused by Crohn's disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sarah, a 21-year-old college student diagnosed with Crohn's disease, is experiencing poor appetite and is underweight. In managing Crohn's disease, nutritional care is crucial. The nurse's advice for Sarah to consume an oral nutrition supplement two to three times a day is aimed at providing her with essential nutrients that she may not be getting due to her poor appetite and potential malabsorption issues associated with Crohn's disease. It is essential to ensure that nutrition supports her needs without exacerbating the disease.
Increasing fiber should be done cautiously in Crohn's patients, as certain fibers may trigger flare-ups. Likewise, consuming high amounts of milk could be problematic if Sarah is lactose intolerant, a common condition in many individuals with Crohn's. High-fat foods can also worsen symptoms of Crohn's disease and are typically not recommended.
It is important for individuals with Crohn's disease to work closely with healthcare providers to develop a tailored diet that manages symptoms while meeting nutritional needs. General dietary advice for those with inflammatory bowel diseases includes adopting a balanced diet that is low in fat and refined carbohydrates while being mindful of fiber intake.