Response:

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) is a diet designed to treat and prevent high blood pressure. It advocates for limiting sodium to around 1,500 mg daily (with a maximum of 2,300 mg) and emphasizes vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and dairy products, rich in nutrients like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. The diet also helps reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, often linked to heart disease, and lowers the pressure of blood against capillary walls.

The DASH diet supports maintaining a standard weight. *Image created by AI*

Beyond its effectiveness in managing blood pressure, DASH may aid in weight loss, though its impact is often modest. Individuals seeking weight loss while following DASH must also commit to regular physical activity, including at least 30 minutes of daily walking combined with muscle-strengthening exercises, and develop strategies for stress and emotional control. Without careful management of calorie intake, weight gain remains a possibility, even on the DASH diet.

The DASH diet's emphasis on increased fiber and vitamins, coupled with limitations on sugar, starch, and fat, directly supports weight management goals. Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to tailor a diet plan that aligns with your health needs and weight objectives.

Nutritionist Hoang Dao Ngoc Lan

Endocrinology - Diabetes Unit

Tam Anh General Clinic District 7