Which nutrient pattern is emphasized by the DASH diet to manage blood pressure?

Which nutrient pattern is emphasized by the DASH diet to manage blood pressure?

• A. Increase refined sugars.
• B. Increase red meat intake.
• C. Increase sodium and saturated fat.
• D. Increase fruits/vegetables and low-fat dairy with reduced sodium and saturated fat.

Answer: (D)

DASH emphasizes a pattern rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy while reducing sodium and saturated fat to help lower blood pressure. Fruits and vegetables supply potassium, fiber, and other minerals that support blood vessel relaxation and balance fluid status. Low-fat dairy adds calcium and potassium, both linked to BP control, while cutting sodium decreases fluid volume and pressure on vessel walls. Reducing saturated fat supports overall heart health and complements the plant-forward emphasis of the diet. Choices that push refined sugars, increase red meat, or raise sodium and saturated fat don’t support blood pressure management and would counter the DASH approach.

DASH emphasizes a pattern rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy while reducing sodium and saturated fat to help lower blood pressure. Fruits and vegetables supply potassium, fiber, and other minerals that support blood vessel relaxation and balance fluid status. Low-fat dairy adds calcium and potassium, both linked to BP control, while cutting sodium decreases fluid volume and pressure on vessel walls. Reducing saturated fat supports overall heart health and complements the plant-forward emphasis of the diet. Choices that push refined sugars, increase red meat, or raise sodium and saturated fat don’t support blood pressure management and would counter the DASH approach.