A nurse is planning care for a client who has diverticulitis. Which of the following menu selections should the nurse
include in the plan?
A.
Sliced ham with green salad
B.
Grilled chicken breast with white rice
C.
Pork tenderloin with green peas
D.
Turkey sandwich with celery sticks
E.
Turkey sandwich with celery sticks
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct menu selection for a client with diverticulitis is:
B. Grilled chicken breast with white rice
Explanation:
Diverticulitis is the inflammation or infection of small pouches, called diverticula, that can form in the walls of the colon. During an acute episode of diverticulitis, the goal is to reduce inflammation, avoid foods that can irritate the digestive tract, and give the colon time to heal. A diet with low-fiber, soft, and easy-to-digest foods is often recommended.
Here’s why option B (Grilled chicken breast with white rice) is the most appropriate choice:
- Low-Fiber Diet: In the acute phase of diverticulitis, a low-fiber diet is usually recommended. White rice is low in fiber and easy to digest, unlike whole grains, which are harder for the inflamed digestive system to process.
- Lean Protein: Grilled chicken breast provides lean protein without excessive fat, which is gentler on the digestive system. Fatty or greasy foods can worsen symptoms during a flare-up.
- Avoiding Irritating Vegetables: While vegetables are important in a general healthy diet, raw or fibrous vegetables, such as those in other options like green peas, salad greens, and celery, can irritate the colon during a diverticulitis episode. These vegetables can increase pressure in the colon, leading to discomfort or worsening inflammation.
Why Other Options Are Not Recommended:
- A. Sliced ham with green salad: Ham is processed and can be high in fat, sodium, and preservatives, which may irritate the colon. Additionally, the raw salad contains fiber that could worsen diverticulitis symptoms.
- C. Pork tenderloin with green peas: Pork is a higher-fat protein, and green peas are relatively fibrous, which could irritate the colon.
- D. Turkey sandwich with celery sticks: Celery is fibrous and could exacerbate symptoms by adding unnecessary bulk to the digestive tract.
In conclusion, the low-fiber, easily digestible option of grilled chicken and white rice is the safest and most suitable choice for managing diverticulitis during an acute episode.