Cheryl is a self-described “sugar addict” who has suffered some serious setbacks both in her personal life and in her job. She hasn’t had the energy or motivation to cook for herself and relies on fast food, soda and sweets to get through her day. Since she’s been comforting herself with these foods, she’s gained 30 pounds in the last year. Cheryl recently saw her physician for her annual checkup and was startled when he went over the exam and lab results with her. Cheryl’s fasting blood glucose concentration was 142mg/dL and her blood cholesterol results indicated that she has high blood cholesterol. Her exam results revealed that at 5’8” and 206 lbs, her BMI 31.6 puts her in the obese range, and she exhibits high blood pressure.
Question 1: Analyze Cheryl’s exam and fasting serum glucose results to determine if she’s at risk for any chronic disease. Explain why you came to this conclusion, including all indicators that pointed you in this direction, and what, if any, steps Cheryl should take to bring her results back to normal. You will need to defend your answer using specific facts, data, and other information drawn from the textbook and at least one other supplemental source.
Question 2: Describe how adding fiber-rich complex carbohydrate to her diet can positively impact Cheryl’s exam and lab results and suggest some foods that fit this category. Be sure to include in your answer the types of fiber that are responsible for each health benefit. Support your answer with data, facts, key terminology, specific examples and other information drawn from the textbook and at least one other supplemental source.
Full Answer Section
3. Metabolic Syndrome:
- Cheryl exhibits several key features of metabolic syndrome, including abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels. This cluster of risk factors significantly increases the risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
Steps Cheryl should take:
- Consult with her doctor immediately to develop a personalized plan for managing her health.
- Implement a healthy diet low in sugar and processed foods, focusing on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
- Increase physical activity regularly to improve insulin sensitivity and overall health.
- Consider seeking support from a registered dietitian or diabetes educator to learn about meal planning and healthy lifestyle choices.
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Question 2: Impact of Fiber-Rich Complex Carbohydrates
Adding fiber-rich complex carbohydrates to Cheryl's diet can positively impact her exam and lab results in several ways:
1. Improve Blood Sugar Control:
- Soluble fiber slows down the absorption of glucose, preventing blood sugar spikes after meals.
- Higher fiber intake is associated with reduced risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.
2. Weight Management:
- Fiber promotes satiety and feeling full for longer, helping to manage portions and control calorie intake.
- Increased fiber intake is associated with lower body weight and reduced risk of obesity.
3. Lower Blood Cholesterol:
- Certain types of fiber (soluble and viscous) can help bind cholesterol and reduce its absorption.
- Higher fiber intake can contribute to improved cholesterol levels.
Examples of fiber-rich complex carbohydrates:
- Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, oats, whole-wheat bread
- Vegetables: Broccoli, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, carrots
- Fruits: Berries, apples, pears, bananas
- Legumes: Beans, lentils, peas
Types of fiber and their benefits:
- Soluble fiber: Forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract, slowing down food and sugar absorption (e.g., oats, beans, psyllium)
- Insoluble fiber: Adds bulk to stool and promotes regularity (e.g., whole grains, vegetables)
Sources:
By incorporating these fiber-rich foods into her diet, Cheryl can improve her blood sugar control, manage weight, lower cholesterol, and reduce her risk for chronic diseases.
Remember, these are general recommendations, and Cheryl should consult with her doctor and a registered dietitian to develop a personalized plan that fits her specific needs and preferences.
Sample Answer
Question 1: Cheryl's Risk of Chronic Diseases
Based on Cheryl's exam and fasting serum glucose results, she is at risk for several chronic diseases, including:
1. Prediabetes: A fasting blood glucose level of 142 mg/dL falls within the prediabetes range (100-125 mg/dL) and indicates an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes if lifestyle changes are not implemented.
2. Type 2 Diabetes: If Cheryl's prediabetes progresses, she has a high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which can lead to serious complications like heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and nerve damage.