Monday, February 16, 2009

A DASH to Stop Hypertension


By Krystle Banzuela

DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. Hypertension is blood pressure greater than 140/90 mmHg. Studies have shown that following a DASH eating plan can prevent and control hypertension. It can lower the systolic blood pressure (SBP) 8-14 mmHg, lower weight and lower LDL or the bad cholesterol, which all together will reduce the risk of getting heart and renal diseases.
A DASH eating plan is low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and total fat. It emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products. It also includes whole grain products, fish, poultry, and nuts. It is reduced in lean red meat, sweets, added sugars, and sugar containing beverages. It is rich in potassium, magnesium and calcium, as well as protein and fiber. It contains less salt and sodium. 1500-2300 milligrams of sodium per day is recommended.
To make a DASH for life, start now and go slowly. Gradually increase the amount of fiber-rich foods you eat over several weeks to prevent bloating and diarrhea. Don’t stop taking prescribed blood pressure medications. Continue taking them and let your primary health care provider know that you are now eating the DASH way.

To learn and get more information, visit: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/hbp/prevent/h_eating/h_eating.htm.
To download the Guide to lowering blood pressure with DASH, visit: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/hbp/dash/new_dash.pdf.

References:

Mauk, K.L. (2006). Gerontological nursing: Competencies for care. Masachusetts: Jones and Bartlett Publishes.


National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (n.d.). Your guide to lowering your blood pressure with DASH. Retrieved February 05, 2009, from http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/hbp/dash/new_dash.pdf.


Smeltzer, S. C., Bare, B. G., Hinkle, J. L. & Cheever, K. H. (2008). Brunner & Suddarth’s textbook of medical-surgical nursing (11th ed., Vol. 2). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.


Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Krystle Banzuela RN (pictured above) with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The cont of this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.

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