DASH Diet

DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. It primarily benefits individuals with high blood pressure or those at risk for cardiovascular disease. It is also beneficial for anyone seeking a structured and balanced eating plan to improve overall health.

A DASH diet consists of a high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, along with moderate amounts of fish, poultry, nuts, and a limited amount of red meats and sweets. It emphasizes reducing sodium intake while increasing nutrients like potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which help lower blood pressure.

The first two weeks of the DASH diet focus on jump-starting the reduction of sodium intake to lower blood pressure quickly. During this period, individuals are encouraged to make dietary changes such as increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing fats and red meat.