The nurse is teaching about the importance of dietary fiber at a community health fair. Which health benefits of consuming a fiber-rich diet should the nurse include in the teaching plan? Select all that apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

NCLEX® CHANGE AS OF 2017 - Please note that select-all-that-apply (SATA) questions on NCLEX can now include any number of correct responses. Only ONE option or up to ALL options may be correct. UWorld questions now reflect this change. Visit NCSBN® NCLEX FAQs for more information. Dietary fiber is composed of indigestible complex carbohydrates that absorb and retain water, which increases stool bulk and makes stool softer and easier to pass. Consuming a diet high in fiber-rich foods (eg, fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains) improves stool elimination, which helps prevent constipation and decreases the risk of colorectal cancer (Options A and E). Fiber-rich foods tend to have a low glycemic load (less sugar per serving) and are nutrient dense, yet they have lower caloric density. Clients may also experience increased satiety as fiber absorbs water and produces fullness. This may help reduce caloric intake, improve blood glucose control, and promote weight loss (Options B and C). Fiber binds to cholesterol in the intestines, which reduces serum cholesterol levels by decreasing the amount of dietary cholesterol that enters the bloodstream. Decreasing serum cholesterol levels helps reduce vascular plaque buildup and atherosclerosis. A high intake of fiber-rich foods directly correlates with a reduced risk of vascular diseases, including coronary artery disease and stroke (Option D). Educational objective: Dietary fiber increases stool bulk and makes stool softer and easier to pass. A fiber-rich diet helps prevent constipation; decreases risk of colorectal cancer; promotes weight loss; improves blood glucose control; and decreases serum cholesterol levels, which reduces the risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.

The Nurse Is Teaching About the Importance of Dietary Fiber