A patient diagnosed with Iron deficiency has been instructed to eat iron-rich food, what statement indicates understanding by the patient?
A.
“I will eat leafy green vegetables.”.
B.
“I will take calcium supplements.”.
C.
“I will consume two glasses of prune juice daily.”.
D.
“I will consume raw sushi.”.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
A. “I will eat leafy green vegetables.”
Explanation:
Iron deficiency is a common nutritional deficiency that can lead to anemia if not properly addressed. A key component of managing iron deficiency involves increasing dietary intake of iron-rich foods. The statement “I will eat leafy green vegetables” demonstrates an understanding of this recommendation. Leafy green vegetables, such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, are excellent sources of non-heme iron, which is the type of iron found in plant-based foods.
Iron is crucial for the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. When iron levels are low, it can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. To combat iron deficiency, patients are advised to include foods that are rich in iron in their diet.
Option B (“I will take calcium supplements.”) does not address iron deficiency directly. While calcium is important for bone health, excessive calcium intake can actually inhibit iron absorption if taken in large amounts, making it less relevant for treating iron deficiency.
Option C (“I will consume two glasses of prune juice daily.”) is not particularly effective for increasing iron levels. Prune juice is more commonly known for its benefits in promoting digestive health rather than its iron content. It’s not a significant source of iron compared to other options.
Option D (“I will consume raw sushi.”) is not appropriate for addressing iron deficiency. While some types of fish do contain iron, raw sushi also poses risks related to foodborne illnesses, especially if not prepared properly. Additionally, the iron content in sushi is not typically high enough to impact iron deficiency significantly.
Thus, eating iron-rich leafy green vegetables is a practical and effective way for patients to manage their iron levels and understand dietary recommendations for addressing iron deficiency.