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CB asks if she should include foods high in iron in her daily diet. How should the nurse respond?

User Omar Yafer
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Final answer:

CB should be advised to include foods high in iron in her daily diet to prevent anemia and should aim for balance to ensure proper nutrient absorption. Food sources like red meat, shellfish, legumes, and fortified cereals are excellent choices. Combining these with vitamin C-rich foods will enhance iron uptake.

Step-by-step explanation:

As a nurse, it would be advisable to inform CB that including foods high in iron in her daily diet is essential. Iron is a critical nutrient that is involved in the production of hemoglobin, a component of red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. A lack of iron can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by fatigue and weakness. To prevent this, you should consume adequate amounts of iron-rich foods every day. Foods in the Protein/Meat/Fish/Dry Beans/Eggs/Nuts Group not only provide protein but are also good sources of iron and some B vitamins.

Good Sources of Iron

  • Red meat, like beef
  • Shellfish, such as clams and oysters
  • Legumes
  • Seeds and nuts
  • Fortified breakfast cereals

Eating iron-rich foods alongside vitamin C can enhance iron absorption. However, it's important to maintain a balance in your diet to ensure that other nutrients like calcium do not interfere with iron absorption. For personalized dietary advice, CB should consider consulting a registered dietitian.

User Justin Wong
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