What should the nurse practitioner recommend to a 15-year-old who wants to build muscle?

Building muscle requires the body to have sufficient energy and nutrients to support the increased activity and recovery from workouts. For a 15-year-old looking to build muscle, it is essential to recommend an increase in calorie intake alongside protein intake. This is because, during growth phases, the body requires additional calories to support muscle synthesis and overall development.

Increasing calorie intake provides the necessary energy to perform workouts effectively and enables the body to recover and grow after exercise sessions. Alongside calories, protein is crucial as it supplies the building blocks (amino acids) necessary for muscle repair and growth. This combination of increased calorie and protein intake provides both the energy and resources needed to effectively build muscle.

In contrast, reducing calorie intake would be counterproductive to muscle growth as it could lead to insufficient energy levels for workouts and recovery. Increasing fiber intake is beneficial for overall digestive health but does not directly contribute to muscle building in the same way that increased protein and calorie intake does. Relying solely on protein supplements isn't advisable either, as a balanced diet containing a variety of nutrients is essential for optimal muscle development and overall health.