According to dietary guidelines, what should be increased to help reduce a client's risk for heart disease?

Increasing complex carbohydrates in a diet is recommended to help reduce the risk of heart disease. Complex carbohydrates are found in whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, and they provide numerous health benefits. They are rich in fiber, which aids in lowering cholesterol levels, stabilizing blood sugar, and promoting overall heart health.

Fiber from complex carbohydrates helps to reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the bloodstream, which can lower the risk of heart disease. Moreover, these foods are typically lower in calories than refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats, contributing to better weight management—an important factor in reducing heart disease risk.

In contrast, simple sugars, saturated fats, and trans fats can contribute to higher levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease. Simple sugars can lead to weight gain and poor metabolic health, while saturated and trans fats are known to raise LDL cholesterol levels, a significant risk factor for heart disease. Thus, promoting complex carbohydrates is a beneficial strategy for heart health according to dietary guidelines.