A nurse is caring for a child with gastroesophageal reflux disease.Which dietary change should the nurse recommend?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationaleCitrus foods are acidic and can irritate the esophagus, potentially worsening reflux symptoms in children with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Increasing citrus intake is generally not recommended.Choice B rationaleFatty foods tend to delay gastric emptying, which can increase the risk and duration of reflux episodes. Decreasing the intake of fatty foods can help reduce GERD symptoms by allowing the stomach to empty more quickly.Choice C rationaleSpicy foods can irritate the lining of the esophagus and exacerbate reflux symptoms in individuals with GERD. Encouraging the consumption of spicy foods is generally contraindicated.Choice D rationaleFiber promotes healthy digestion and typically does not worsen GERD symptoms. In some cases, adequate fiber intake can even be beneficial. Limiting fiber intake is not a standard dietary recommendation for children with GERD.