Cheryl is a self-described “sugar addict” who has suffered some serious setbacks both in her personal life and in her job

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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.

 

 

 

Sample Solution

Question 1: Cheryl’s Chronic Disease Risk Analysis

Based on Cheryl’s exam and fasting serum glucose results, she is at risk for several chronic diseases. Here’s a breakdown of the indicators and potential risks:

Indicators:

  • Fasting blood glucose concentration of 142 mg/dL: This falls within the pre-diabetic range (100-125 mg/dL) and indicates an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes, particularly with her other risk factors.
  • High blood cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
  • BMI of 31.6: This classifies Cheryl as obese, which is a major risk factor for numerous chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, some cancers, sleep apnea, and musculoskeletal disorders.
  • High blood pressure: Prehypertension or hypertension significantly raises the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
  • Unhealthy diet: Reliance on fast food, soda, and sweets is associated with chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

Conclusion: Considering the cumulative effect of these risk factors, Cheryl has a high probability of developing chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and related complications if she doesn’t adopt healthy lifestyle changes.

Steps for Cheryl:

  • Seek medical advice: Regular consultations with her physician are crucial to monitor her health and receive personalized guidance on managing her conditions and risks.
  • Dietary changes: Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein while limiting processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats will significantly improve her health markers.
  • Physical activity: Engaging in regular moderate-intensity exercise (at least 150 minutes per week) will aid in weight management, blood sugar control, and overall health.
  • Stress management: Chronic stress can exacerbate health issues. Identifying and managing stress through techniques like yoga, meditation, or relaxation exercises can be beneficial.
  • Lifestyle modifications: Adequate sleep, smoking cessation (if applicable), and limiting alcohol consumption are additional elements contributing to overall health and disease prevention.

Resources:

Question 2: Fiber-Rich Complex Carbohydrates and Cheryl’s Health

Adding fiber-rich complex carbohydrates to Cheryl’s diet can positively impact her exam and lab results in several ways:

Benefits:

  • Improved blood sugar control: Fiber slows down the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream, preventing blood sugar spikes. This can help manage pre-diabetes and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
  • Lower cholesterol levels: Soluble fiber can bind to cholesterol in the digestive system, preventing its absorption and promoting its elimination. This can contribute to improved cholesterol levels.
  • Weight management: Fiber promotes satiety and reduces calorie intake, aiding in weight loss and reducing obesity-related risks.
  • Improved gut health: Fiber feeds gut bacteria, promoting balance and digestion, which can positively impact overall health and potentially improve blood pressure.

Types of Fiber and Benefits:

  • Soluble fiber: Found in oats, beans, lentils, apples, and psyllium, it lowers cholesterol, regulates blood sugar, and promotes gut health.
  • Insoluble fiber: Found in whole grains, vegetables, and nuts, it aids in digestion, promotes regularity, and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

Food suggestions for Cheryl:

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with nuts and berries, whole-wheat toast with avocado, Greek yogurt with fruit and granola.
  • Lunch: Whole-wheat pasta salad with vegetables and lean protein, lentil soup with whole-grain bread, quinoa salad with chickpeas and vegetables.
  • Dinner: Salmon with roasted sweet potatoes and broccoli, chicken stir-fry with brown rice and vegetables, black bean burgers on whole-wheat buns.
  • Snacks: Fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, yogurt with berries, dark chocolate.

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