What dietary recommendation should be included for clients on long-term corticosteroids?

Clients on long-term corticosteroid therapy should be advised to maintain a diet high in calcium and protein. This recommendation is crucial because corticosteroids can lead to bone loss or osteoporosis, and a diet rich in calcium helps support bone health. Additionally, protein is essential for tissue repair and muscle maintenance, especially in individuals who may experience muscle wasting as a side effect of corticosteroid use.

Corticosteroids can also lead to increased protein catabolism, making sufficient protein intake even more important for these patients. A well-balanced diet that includes adequate calcium helps mitigate the risk of bone density loss associated with prolonged corticosteroid use.

The recommendation to increase simple carbohydrates is not appropriate as it could further contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance, common side effects of corticosteroid treatment. Reducing fluid intake is not typically indicated, as corticosteroids may cause fluid retention, but maintaining hydration is usually more beneficial. Lastly, avoiding high-calcium foods to prevent kidney stones is not a relevant concern for patients on corticosteroids; instead, they should be encouraged to consume adequate calcium.