A client looking to add muscle asks for calorie advice. What is the best recommendation while staying within scope?

The recommendation to suggest increasing meal frequency and portion sizes is sound because it directly addresses the client's goal of adding muscle, which typically requires a caloric surplus. By increasing meal frequency, the client can consume more calories throughout the day without feeling overly full at any one time. This strategy allows for the consumption of additional nutrients that support muscle growth, such as proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.

Additionally, larger portion sizes help ensure that the client receives adequate caloric intake to support her metabolism and energy needs while training for muscle growth. This approach aligns with overall nutritional guidelines that favor a balanced intake of macronutrients, which is critical for anyone looking to build muscle effectively.

The other options do not support healthy practices or the client’s goal in a suitable manner. Consuming only liquid meals could result in nutritional deficiencies and lacks the variety commonly recommended for muscle gain. High-calorie supplements might be tempting, but relying too heavily on supplements can lead to an imbalanced diet. Finally, skipping meals is counterproductive for gaining muscle, as it restricts calorie intake and could hinder metabolic processes essential for muscle repair and growth.