What diet is most appropriate for a client with COPD?

A high-calorie, high-protein diet is most appropriate for a client with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) due to the increased energy expenditure and nutritional needs associated with the disease. Patients with COPD often experience difficulty with breathing, which increases the work of respiration and can lead to unintentional weight loss and muscle wasting. A diet rich in calories and proteins helps in maintaining or gaining lean body mass, which is crucial for muscle strength, including the respiratory muscles.

Additionally, a high-protein diet aids in repair and maintenance of tissues, supporting overall health and potentially improving respiratory function. Adjusting nutrition in this way can also enhance exercise tolerance and functional capacity for individuals with COPD. Therefore, focusing on a high-calorie, high-protein diet is essential for optimizing the nutritional status and improving the quality of life in patients with this condition.