A nurse is caring for a client who has lactose intolerance and eliminated dairy products from their diet. The nurse would instruct the client to increase consumption of which of the following foods?
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer:
Dark green leafy vegetables (such as kale, broccoli, and spinach)
Explanation (300 words):
Lactose intolerance is a condition in which the body cannot digest lactose, the sugar found in dairy products. This occurs due to a deficiency of the enzyme lactase, which is required to break down lactose in the small intestine. As a result, individuals with lactose intolerance may experience symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming milk or dairy products.
Dairy products are a major dietary source of calcium, which is essential for bone health, nerve transmission, and muscle function. When individuals eliminate dairy from their diet, it is crucial to replace it with other calcium-rich foods to prevent deficiencies, especially in populations at risk for osteoporosis or poor bone health.
Dark green leafy vegetables like kale, broccoli, bok choy, and collard greens are excellent non-dairy sources of calcium. They are not only rich in calcium but also contain other vital nutrients like vitamin K, magnesium, and fiber, all of which contribute to healthy bones and overall well-being. While the calcium content in these vegetables may be lower than in dairy, their bioavailability—or how well the body absorbs the calcium—can be quite high, particularly in low-oxalate greens like kale and bok choy.
Other non-dairy calcium sources include:
- Fortified plant-based milks (e.g., soy, almond, or oat milk with added calcium and vitamin D)
- Calcium-set tofu
- Canned fish with bones (like sardines or salmon)
- Nuts and seeds (especially almonds and sesame seeds)
The nurse should also assess whether the client is getting enough vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption, and may recommend supplements if dietary intake is insufficient.
By encouraging the intake of calcium-rich vegetables, the nurse helps ensure that the client maintains adequate nutrient levels despite the absence of dairy in their diet.