What dietary recommendation should a nurse make to reduce a client's risk factors for heart disease?

Increasing the quantity of complex carbohydrates as a dietary recommendation is beneficial in reducing a client's risk factors for heart disease. Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, provide essential nutrients and fiber that play a critical role in cardiovascular health. Fiber helps to lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood sugar, and promote a healthy weight—all important factors in reducing the risk of heart disease.

Additionally, complex carbohydrates have a lower glycemic index compared to simple carbohydrates, leading to more stable blood sugar levels. This stability can prevent spikes in insulin and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, which is a significant risk factor for heart disease.

The focus on whole, unprocessed foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates often aligns with a heart-healthy diet, which emphasizes high fiber, nutrient-dense options rather than high-fat and refined options. Approaches such as the Mediterranean diet highlight carbohydrates from whole, plant-based sources which can further support cardiovascular health.

In contrast, recommendations to increase saturated fat intake typically lead to higher LDL cholesterol levels, which can contribute to arterial plaque buildup and heart disease. A decrease in protein intake is not generally necessary unless specific health issues are present. Finally, limiting water consumption is not a logical recommendation for heart health;