HUM 103 Nutrition and Wellness Unfolding Case 3.1
Robert Santos
Three years ago, Robert, a 50-year-old farmer, learned he has alpha-gal allergy, an allergy caused by a lone star tick bite that causes a delayed anaphylactic reaction after eating meat. He must avoid beef, pork, lamb, rabbit, venison, and buffalo meat. Prior to the tick bite, his usual weight was 185 pounds (84 kg), which was within healthy range for his height. However, after years of restricting the variety of protein foods he eats, he is now underweight and continues to lose weight. He does not like seafood and is tired of eating poultry.
HUM 103 Unfolding Case 3.2
Think of Robert. What is his RDA for protein at a healthy weight of 84 kg? His protein calorie intakes are inadequate, as determined by food records and weight loss. He agrees to try in-between meal snacks. What snacks would you specifically suggest?
Assuming a healthy weight of 84 kg, Robert’s Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is approximately 67.2 grams per day. However, if he is underweight and losing weight, he may need to consume even more protein to help support muscle mass and prevent further weight loss.
In terms of snacks, there are several high-protein options that Robert could try:
- Greek yogurt with berries
- Hummus with baby carrots or whole-grain crackers
- Peanut butter or almond butter on whole-grain toast or apple slices
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Nuts and seeds, such as almonds or pumpkin seeds
- Cottage cheese with fruit or whole-grain crackers
It’s important for Robert to incorporate a variety of protein sources into his diet, even if he can’t eat certain types of meat. Plant-based proteins, such as legumes and nuts, can be good sources of protein and may be more palatable than poultry if he’s getting tired of it. Additionally, working with a registered dietitian can help ensure that he is meeting his protein needs and getting adequate nutrition overall.
The RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) for protein for adults is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.
To calculate Robert’s RDA for protein at a healthy weight of 84 kg, we can use the following equation:
RDA for protein = 0.8 g/kg body weight x body weight in kg
RDA for protein = 0.8 g/kg x 84 kg
RDA for protein = 67.2 grams per day
Therefore, Robert’s RDA for protein is 67.2 grams per day.
HUM 103Unfolding Case 3.3
Recall Robert. Is it appropriate to recommend vegetarian resources that feature nonmeat recipes and meal patterns to him even though he is not a vegetarian?
Yes, it would be appropriate to recommend vegetarian resources that feature nonmeat recipes and meal patterns to Robert. Although Robert is not a vegetarian, his restricted diet may limit the variety of protein sources he can consume. Vegetarian resources often feature a variety of protein sources, such as legumes, nuts, and seeds, which can provide valuable options for individuals with limited protein sources due to allergies or dietary restrictions. Additionally, these resources can provide creative ideas for incorporating protein-rich vegetarian meals and snacks into his diet.
HUM 103 Unfolding Case 3.4
Think of Robert. Because he does not eat red meat, his intake of heme iron is low. What other nutrients may he consume in inadequate amounts? Would he benefit from a multivitamin with minerals?
Since Robert is avoiding red meat, he may not be getting enough vitamin B12, zinc, and iron in his diet. Vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal products, so individuals who avoid animal products are at risk of deficiency. Zinc and iron are also found in red meat, and their absorption from plant-based sources is generally lower. Therefore, it may be appropriate to recommend a multivitamin with minerals to ensure adequate intake of these nutrients. However, it is important to note that a multivitamin should not be considered a replacement for a healthy, balanced diet. It is important to encourage Robert to consume a variety of nutrient-dense foods to meet his nutrient needs.
HUM 103 Unfolding Case 3.5
Consider Robert. He wants to know if whey protein powder or amino acid supplements would be appropriate for him. How would you respond?
Since Robert is not a vegetarian, he can meet his protein needs through a variety of protein sources such as poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Therefore, he likely does not need to supplement with whey protein powder or amino acid supplements to meet his protein needs.
Additionally, it’s important to note that supplements should not be used as a substitute for a healthy, balanced diet. While they may be beneficial in certain situations, such as when a person has a specific nutrient deficiency, it’s generally best to obtain nutrients through food sources whenever possible.
Chapter 2 Case Studies: Chapter 2 Unfolding Case HUN 103 Nutrition and Wellness
Chapter 1 Case Studies: Chapter 1 Unfolding Case HUN 103 Nutrition and Wellness
