For a pregnant client with lactose intolerance, which food should the nurse encourage to promote calcium intake?

Encouraging the consumption of broccoli for a pregnant client with lactose intolerance is an effective choice for promoting calcium intake. Broccoli is not only a versatile vegetable that can be incorporated into various dishes, but it is also rich in calcium, providing a plant-based source that helps meet daily nutritional needs during pregnancy. In addition to calcium, broccoli contains other essential nutrients such as vitamins C and K, folate, and fiber, which are beneficial for both maternal and fetal health.

While options like almond milk and tofu are also good sources of calcium, they may not be as universally accepted by all pregnant individuals due to taste or dietary preferences. Rice milk, on the other hand, typically has a lower calcium content unless fortified, making it a less effective choice for increasing calcium intake. Thus, broccoli stands out as a nutrient-dense option that can effectively support calcium needs during pregnancy for those with lactose intolerance.