A client with mild digestive problems should ideally have protein intake adjusted in which direction during the first 1-2 months?

• A. Little More
• B. Little Less
• C. No Change
• D. Much More

Answer: (A)

When digestion is mildly impaired, the body still needs enough protein to repair the gut lining and support immune function. In the early phase (the first 1–2 months), giving a modest increase in protein helps promote healing and preserve lean body mass without overloading the digestive system. That’s why a small uptick in protein intake is the best approach.

If protein were increased substantially or dramatically, it could add more workload to the gut and potentially worsen symptoms, so much more isn’t ideal. Keeping protein the same might not provide enough amino acids for healing, and reducing protein could hinder tissue repair. A little more protein strikes a balance between support for healing and tolerability.