1. A 35-year-old female client wants to lose weight and improve her

cardiovascular health. She has a BMI of 28 and a waist circumference of 88

cm. She reports eating three meals a day, mostly consisting of processed

foods, and snacking on sweets and chips in between. She drinks about two

liters of water a day, but also consumes soft drinks and coffee regularly. She

exercises twice a week for 30 minutes, doing moderate-intensity aerobic

activities. Based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025, what is

the most appropriate recommendation for her dietary pattern?

a) She should follow a healthy vegetarian eating pattern, which emphasizes

plant-based foods and limits animal products.

b) She should follow a healthy Mediterranean-style eating pattern, which

emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, fish, and

olive oil.

c) She should follow a healthy US-style eating pattern, which emphasizes

fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy, and healthy oils.

d) *She should follow a healthy dietary pattern that meets her nutrient

needs, calorie goals, and personal preferences, while limiting added sugars,

saturated fats, sodium, and alcoholic beverages.*

Rationale: The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 do not prescribe

a specific eating pattern, but rather provide general principles and examples

of healthy dietary patterns that can be adapted to individual needs and

preferences. The client should choose an eating pattern that suits her

lifestyle, culture, budget, and health goals, while following the key

recommendations of the guidelines. The other options are examples of