A client reports following the "food pyramid" to guide nutritional intake. How should the nurse evaluate this information?

Question

1. Because this food pyramid is produced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the client is likely consuming necessary levels of all essential nutrients.
2. The food pyramid is most useful when applied to the nutritional intake of children.
3. The food pyramid is not very useful because it does not take fluid intake and combination foods into consideration.
4. Following the appropriate food pyramid is helpful, but there are additional factors to consider in a balanced diet.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Overall, the food pyramid is a good guide, but unless the client eats a variety of foods from each group, some recommended nutrient levels may be missed.
Rationale 2: Food pyramids are available for different age groups, including children, middle adults, and older adults.
Rationale 3: The food pyramid does not take fluid intake and activity level into consideration.
Rationale 4: Because there are numerous food pyramids, the client should be following the appropriate one, and other factors such as fluid intake and activity level should be considered in planning a balanced diet.