NANP Board Practice Exam

A client with a history of long-term use of birth control pills, courses of broad-spectrum antibiotics for chronic bladder infections, allergies or sensitive reactions to numerous foods and chemicals, chronic fatigue, depression, and chronic gas and bloating may benefit most from which dietary approach?

1. Atkins diet

2. Candida diet

3. Keto diet

4. Paleo diet

The correct answer is: Candida diet

The client’s symptoms and history suggest a possible imbalance in gut health, which can result from factors such as long-term use of antibiotics, hormonal changes due to birth control, and food sensitivities. A dietary approach focused on addressing fungal overgrowth, which is common with those who have taken antibiotics, aligns well with the Candida diet. The Candida diet typically involves reducing sugar and refined carbohydrates, which can help reduce the fuel available for yeast overgrowth in the gut, potentially alleviating symptoms such as chronic gas and bloating. This diet also emphasizes whole, unprocessed foods, which can support overall gut health and reduce inflammation, assisting in addressing chronic fatigue and depression by promoting nutrient-dense food sources. In contrast, other dietary approaches might not directly target the client's likely gut dysbiosis or sensitivities. The Atkins and Keto diets are low-carbohydrate approaches that may not specifically address the need to manage potential Candida overgrowth, while the Paleo diet focuses on whole foods but does not necessarily exclude all sources of sugar or refined carbohydrates in a way that would be beneficial for someone with the described symptoms. Thus, the Candida diet is the most fitting choice for supporting this client’s health concerns.