Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet
Summary
The DASH diet is an evidence-based dietary pattern proven to lower blood pressure: high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, lean proteins, and nuts, and low in saturated fat, sodium, red meat, and sweets. It is a first-line lifestyle intervention for hypertension.
Detail
DASH emphasizes high intake of potassium, magnesium, calcium, and fiber, and restricts sodium (≤2.3 g/day, ideally ≤1.5 g/day for greater BP reduction). Trials show reductions in systolic BP of roughly 8–14 mmHg, comparable to a single antihypertensive agent. It is recommended together with weight loss, aerobic exercise, moderation of alcohol, and smoking cessation as the lifestyle pillar of hypertension management (JNC 8/ACC-AHA guidelines). DASH is also cardioprotective broadly, lowering LDL cholesterol and improving glycemic control. Caution: high potassium content can be problematic in CKD or in patients on potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or ARBs.
Sources
- First Aid for USMLE Step 2 CK 2024
- Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine
Reviewed by AnkiBoss editorial — medical student review. Information here is for study reference only and is not medical advice. Spotted an error? Let us know.