What dietary recommendation should be made for a client undergoing chemotherapy with diarrhea?

For a client undergoing chemotherapy who is experiencing diarrhea, a bland, low-fiber diet is the most appropriate recommendation. This type of diet helps manage gastrointestinal symptoms by reducing irritation to the digestive tract. Foods that are bland are less likely to cause gas, bloating, or further irritation, which can be beneficial during a time when the body is already dealing with the side effects of treatment.

A low-fiber diet is also effective because fiber can bulk up stool and may exacerbate diarrhea, especially in sensitive individuals. By reducing fiber intake, the stool may become less watery and more formed, providing more comfort to the client.

In contrast, a high-protein diet, while beneficial for healing and maintaining strength, may not directly address the symptoms of diarrhea and could include foods that irritate the GI tract depending on the source of protein. A diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables, although generally healthy, can also introduce more fiber and potentially irritate the gut further, worsening diarrhea. Similarly, a diet emphasizing whole and organic foods may involve high-fiber options that could aggravate diarrhea as well.

Therefore, the recommendation for a bland, low-fiber diet specifically tailors to alleviating the discomfort caused by diarrhea while undergoing chemotherapy.