Dietetic Technician Practice Test

What is the best initial nutrition intervention for someone with metabolic syndrome?

1. Encouraging a 20% weight loss and at least 60 minutes per day of exercise

2. Implementing the TLC diet and increasing physical activity to a minimum of 30 minutes per day

3. Encouraging a 5-10% weight loss and implementing the Dean Ornish diet

4. Smoking cessation and adding medications to reduce lipids

The correct answer is: Implementing the TLC diet and increasing physical activity to a minimum of 30 minutes per day

The best initial nutrition intervention for someone with metabolic syndrome often focuses on lifestyle changes that address multiple risk factors simultaneously. Implementing the Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC) diet is particularly effective, as this diet emphasizes heart-healthy eating patterns, which can help lower cholesterol and improve overall cardiovascular health. The TLC diet includes reducing saturated fat intake, increasing soluble fiber consumption, and incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, all of which are beneficial for someone with metabolic syndrome. Additionally, increasing physical activity to a minimum of 30 minutes per day aligns well with recommendations for individuals with metabolic syndrome. Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity, promotes weight loss, and contributes to better cardiovascular health. Together, these two components address critical aspects of metabolic syndrome, including obesity, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. While other options may involve weight loss or specific dietary plans like the Dean Ornish diet, the TLC diet is more widely recommended by health organizations and easier for patients to adopt as a sustainable lifestyle change. Therefore, this approach provides a balanced and comprehensive starting point for managing metabolic syndrome.