Meal Plans, Essay Example

Catherine

Catherine’s meal plan was directed for a young patient with cardiovascular disease. For this type of patient, meals high in protein but low in saturated fat and cholesterol are desirable, which Catherine accomplished by incorporating fish and chicken into two of the meals. In addition, she incorporated egg whites, steel cut oatmeal, and other whole grains and vegetables into the diet, all of which are likely to promote greater fat and cholesterol control and reduce the risks associated with cardiovascular disease. In addition, she used “good” fats such as extra virgin olive oil. The foods that Catherine chose are beneficial to the selected patient and her condition because although she is very young, she is nonetheless high risk and must be monitored effectively so that she is able to live a long and healthy life in spite of her condition. One area of caution is the use of salt in the diet, because for somebody with cardiovascular disease, sodium intake must be minimized as much as possible. The use of sea salt and the gyro for lunch perhaps should be substituted for items with lower sodium or none at all. Also the patient’s shrimp intake should also be monitored to ensure that she does not consume excessive amounts of cholesterol in the process. Finally and perhaps most relevant is that the patient’s diet does not include any dairy products. Low fat and low cholesterol dairy products are essential to achieve optimal nutrition for this patient and to maintain healthy skin, teeth, and bones. Otherwise, Catherine has accomplished her objectives quite successfully. She has provided a great start to a healthy diet and with a few minor adjustments, will achieve optimal nutritional levels for this young patient with the intent to preserve her health and wellbeing for as long as possible.

Joshua

Joshua’s meal plan was directed for a 25 to 30 year old male undergoing chemotherapy for an unspecified form of cancer. As a result, many of his required nutrient levels have been depleted and must be added back into his diet in some form. Since chemotherapy takes such a toll on organs and systems, weight loss due to fatigue and general malaise are likely to occur. Therefore, the patient must consume the appropriate diet that is low in fat but high enough in calories to promote modest weight gain. Due to potential complications associated with constipation and/or diarrhea, food intake must be regulated so that fiber is increased as needed or reduced accordingly. With the selected diet, Joshua has achieved success in offering the patient a balance to meet his needs. The diet emphasizes a higher level of carbohydrates with potatoes, rice, and oatmeal and then balances this out effectively with vegetables and proteins throughout the day. The consumption of fish and chicken provide much-needed protein to rebuild his system and energy levels. In addition, the use of “good” fats provides additional support to promote the patient’s healthy diet. One recommendation is to perhaps reduce slightly the consumption of rice and potatoes to reduce the risks associated with constipation, which could make the patient feel weaker. In addition, juice consumption should be monitored for excess sugar intake and high levels of acidity. Nonetheless, Joshua has offered the patient a well-balanced and nutritious diet to accommodate his current chemotherapy treatments in an effective manner. This is an important opportunity for the patient to regain some of his strength and to restore any nutrients that have been lost during the treatment regimen. Chemotherapy is difficult to sustain and to recover from, particularly if treatments are lengthy and frequent; therefore, the patient must consume foods that will promote a stronger and healthier recovery effort in a manner that can be sustained for a long period of time.