Substance Abuse and Abuse Q 31
What information is important to include in the nutritional counseling of a family with a member who has bipolar disorder?
A. If sufficient roughage isn’t eaten while taking lithium, bowel problems will occur.
B. If the intake of carbohydrates increases, the lithium level increases.
C. If the intake of calories is reduced, the lithium level will increase.
D. If the intake of sodium increases, the lithium level will decrease.
Correct Answer: D. If the intake of sodium increases, the lithium level will decrease.
Any time the level of sodium increases, such as with a change in the dietary intake, the levels of lithium will decrease. Lithium often triggers increased thirstiness. Quenching thirst with high-calorie beverages, such as full-calorie soda or fruit juice, is a possible contributor to weight gain. Lithium might also cause sodium and water retention in people who consume a high-salt diet, which can lead to added bodyweight.
Option A: There are no specific dietary requirements while taking Lithium. Generally, the client can eat what they like. However, Lithium requires consistent monitoring to ensure the maintenance of the right balance of lithium in the blood to avoid the dangerous condition of lithium toxicity. Dietary changes, particularly those containing caffeine and salt, may affect lithium levels and increase the risk of developing lithium toxicity.
Option B: Salt consumption can cause fluctuations in serum lithium levels. While taking lithium, do not make sudden changes to salt intake. A sudden decrease in sodium intake (a component of salt) may result in higher serum lithium levels, while a sudden increase in sodium might prompt lithium levels to fall.
Option C: Limit consumption of high-calorie, sugary beverages, such as sodas, fruit juices, sugary coffee drinks, and smoothies. Instead, drink low-calorie or non-caloric beverages to quench thirst. Water with a twist of lemon or lime, hot or iced herbal tea and decaffeinated coffee are a few healthful options.