What should the nurse suggest for reducing ammonia levels in a client with cirrhosis through diet?

In managing a client with cirrhosis, it is important to consider the role of protein in the diet, particularly due to the liver's impaired ability to process ammonia. A balanced diet with moderate protein is recommended because it provides adequate nutrition while limiting excessive protein intake, which can contribute to elevated ammonia levels.

In cirrhosis, the liver is less capable of metabolizing protein efficiently, leading to a potential buildup of ammonia, a toxic byproduct. Moderating protein intake can help prevent this accumulation while still allowing the body to receive essential nutrients for overall health and recovery.

A high-protein diet would place additional strain on the liver by increasing ammonia production. A low-carbohydrate diet could lead to inadequate caloric intake, which is not ideal for someone with cirrhosis. While a high-carbohydrate diet might seem beneficial for energy, it does not address the need for protein moderation and may not adequately support liver function. Thus, a balanced diet with moderate protein strikes a suitable compromise to minimize ammonia levels while ensuring nutritional adequacy.