Which dietary components should a client taking cholestyramine limit?

A client taking cholestyramine should limit dietary fat. Cholestyramine is a bile acid sequestrant primarily used to lower cholesterol levels by binding bile acids in the intestine, which are then excreted from the body. When fats are consumed, they require bile acids for digestion. Therefore, a high-fat diet can counteract the effectiveness of cholestyramine, as the presence of dietary fat increases the demand for bile acids, potentially leading to inadequate binding and reducing the drug’s effectiveness in lowering cholesterol levels.

By limiting fat intake, the client can enhance the drug's ability to bind bile acids effectively, ensuring that more cholesterol is excreted and thus promoting lower serum cholesterol levels. This dietary adjustment is particularly important for individuals requiring significant cholesterol reduction for cardiovascular health. Balancing other macronutrients like carbohydrates, protein, and sugars is essential as well, but the primary concern with cholestyramine pertains specifically to dietary fat.