When teaching a client with Cushing's syndrome about dietary changes, the nurse should instruct to increase intake of which foods?

When teaching a client with Cushing's syndrome about dietary changes, the nurse should instruct to increase intake of which foods?

• A. Fresh fruits
• B. Dairy products
• C. Processed meats
• D. Cereals and grains

Answer: (A)

In Cushing's syndrome, excess cortisol acts like a mineralocorticoid, promoting sodium retention and potassium loss, which can lead to hypokalemia and related symptoms. To counteract this potassium loss, the diet should emphasize potassium-rich foods. Fresh fruits are a great choice because they provide substantial potassium along with vitamins and fiber, helping to balance electrolytes without adding excess sodium or saturated fat. Dairy products are valuable for calcium but aren’t as strong for potassium, processed meats add high sodium and preservatives, and cereals and grains mainly supply carbohydrates without addressing the potassium deficit. So increasing fresh fruits helps replenish potassium and supports overall metabolic stability in this condition.

In Cushing's syndrome, excess cortisol acts like a mineralocorticoid, promoting sodium retention and potassium loss, which can lead to hypokalemia and related symptoms. To counteract this potassium loss, the diet should emphasize potassium-rich foods. Fresh fruits are a great choice because they provide substantial potassium along with vitamins and fiber, helping to balance electrolytes without adding excess sodium or saturated fat. Dairy products are valuable for calcium but aren’t as strong for potassium, processed meats add high sodium and preservatives, and cereals and grains mainly supply carbohydrates without addressing the potassium deficit. So increasing fresh fruits helps replenish potassium and supports overall metabolic stability in this condition.