DASH stands for Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension, it is a dietary approach to reduce or treat hypertension. The diet comprises of food rich in potassium, calcium and magnesium while low in sodium content which checks the progression of hypertension. DASH Diet offers health benefits besides just lowering blood pressure. The DASH diet is also in line with dietary recommendations to prevent osteoporosis, cancer, heart disease, stroke, kidney stones and diabetes.

Originally this diet plan was designed for weight and it comprised of refined grains and starchy foods. Later on it has been modified with the addition of fruits and vegetables, low-fat and nonfat dairy, along with nuts, beans, and seeds.

The DASH Diets have been on two types based on sodium levels; traditionally DASH diet includes vegetables, fruits and low-fat dairy foods and moderate amounts of whole grains, fish, poultry and nuts.

The Standard DASH Diet – The diet that allows the consumption of 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day

Low Sodium DASH Diet – This diet allows consumption of sodium up to 1,500milligrmas per day.

A strict DASH Diet is known to reduce the blood pressure by eight to fourteen points. These have been successful mainly because of the good amount of potassium, magnesium and calcium, low sodium which all lower the blood pressure. In addition if we make some lifestyle modifications like, weight loss, exercise, smoking cessation, and moderation of alcohol intake, will give a better control over blood pressure.

- Koya Satyasri