Which food combination would the nurse encourage for a strict vegan to ensure intake of essential amino acids?

The combination of whole-grain cereals and nuts is encouraged for a vegan diet to ensure adequate intake of essential amino acids because both components together provide a complete protein profile.

Vegetarians and vegans can sometimes struggle to obtain all the essential amino acids necessary for bodily functions, as many plant-based proteins do not contain all the amino acids in sufficient quantities. Whole grains, such as those found in whole-grain cereals, typically lack sufficient lysine, whereas nuts provide this amino acid and are also rich in healthy fats. Conversely, nuts may lack sufficient methionine, which is abundant in grains. By consuming these two foods together, a vegan can enhance their protein quality, allowing them to obtain the necessary amino acids to support their health.

The other food combinations do not provide the same benefit: macaroni and cheese relies on dairy and is not suitable for strict vegans; scrambled eggs and buttermilk also contain animal-based products; and while brown rice and whole wheat bread do form a complementary protein combination, nuts and whole grains together provide a broader spectrum of essential amino acids. Therefore, the combination of whole-grain cereals and nuts is particularly effective in ensuring a balanced intake of essential amino acids in a strict vegan diet.