Question

Your friend's grandfather is placed on a diuretic and counseled to eat lots of bananas and citrus fruits. Why?

a. Certain diuretics can cause potassium depletion and bananas and citrus fruits are rich in
potassium.

b. The vitamin C in the fruits will help prevent adverse reactions associated with diuretics.

c. Eating fruit will help him avoid the constipation that is associated with many diuretics.

d. Fruits are an important part of a healthy diet.

Answer 1

Bananas and citrus fruits are recommended for someone on diuretics because they help replenish potassium lost due to the increased urine output caused by diuretics, ensuring proper electrolyte balance.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason a friend's grandfather is advised to eat lots of bananas and citrus fruits after being placed on a diuretic is because diuretics can cause potassium depletion, and fruits like bananas and citrus fruits are rich in potassium. In particular, certain diuretics, such as loop diuretics and thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide, inhibit the reabsorption of Na+ and Cl- ions, triggering increased urine production and the potential loss of potassium along with other electrolytes. Consuming foods high in potassium is crucial for maintaining proper electrolyte balance and preventing disorders associated with low levels of potassium, such as muscle weakness, arrhythmia, and even diabetic coma.