Which dietary approach is recommended for hypertension management?

The DASH diet, which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, is specifically designed to help individuals manage high blood pressure. This eating plan emphasizes a balanced intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while being low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. The composition of the DASH diet supports heart health by providing essential nutrients such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are known to help lower blood pressure. The emphasis on whole foods rather than processed options reduces sodium intake, which is crucial for hypertension management.

In contrast, other diets such as the ketogenic diet and the paleo diet may not prioritize these nutrient-dense foods to the same extent and can vary in their effect on sodium intake. The low-carb diet focuses more on restricting carbohydrates rather than promoting specific food types beneficial for heart health. Thus, while they may have their own benefits, they are not specifically aimed at effectively managing hypertension like the DASH diet.