A. ALTERNATIVE MEDICAL SYSTEMS

Benefits derived from complementary methods of blood pressure control

US News has an article on the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which is aimed at providing nutrients to help reduce blood pressure as well as other benefits. With DASH, the focus is on dietary patterns rather than single nutrients.

For those who think it might be worth the effort, Dr. Barry Materson from the University of Miami says what you can expect in lowered blood pressure. Several years ago another article reported how DASH compares to other treatment options for lowering blood pressure.

  • Weight reduction (5-20 mm Hg/10 kg [4.5 lb])
  • DASH eating plan (8-14 mm Hg)
  • Dietary sodium reduction (2-8 mm Hg)
  • Increased physical activity (4-9 mm Hg)
  • Moderation of alcohol consumption (2-4 mm Hg)

Combining activities might have an additive benefit.

DASH is high in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and low-fat dairy products. It emphasizes fish and chicken rather than red meat, and is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, sugar, and refined carbohydrates.

Search the contents of this site to find lots ore about DASH.

10/23/06 11:57 JR

Hi, I’m JR

John Russo, Jr., PharmD, is president of The MedCom Resource, Inc. Previously, he was senior vice president of medical communications at www.Vicus.com, a complementary and alternative medicine website.