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Dash Diet for Hypertension
Dash Diet — Dietary Approaches to
Hypertension is another name for high blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force exerted on artery walls when the heart is beating and when it is at rest.
The higher number is the “Systolic” pressure and is the pressure exerted on artery walls when the heart is in the contracting phase. The lower number is the “Diastolic” pressure and is the pressure exerted on artery walls when the heart is in the resting phase.
High blood pressure is a silent killer. If left unchecked, it can cause permanent damage, resulting in kidney failure, heart attack or stroke.
Blood pressure is considered high if the upper number (systolic pressure) is above 140 and the bottom number (diastolic pressure) is above 90 and stays there. Although, many physicians believe these numbers are still too high. Something like 130/80 might be what you need to shoot for in order to lower the risks of hypertension.
There are actually two types of high blood pressure. One is primary and the other is secondary. In secondary high blood pressure, usually something else causing it, like an overactive thyroid gland. However, most people suffer from primary high blood pressure. The cause for high blood pressure in the primary form cannot be determined, but, while the cause may not be known, the treatment can still be effective.
Basic Rules for Controlling High Blood Pressure
There are also a few dietary interventions to start and help control your blood pressure...
Most medical experts recommend salt-sensitive persons limit salt to 2,000 milligrams per day. Watch out for “hidden” salt, found in butter flavorings, seasonings, tomato sauces, condiments and canned foods. Check with your healthcare practitioner before using a salt substitute.
Limit intake of high-fat foods
Try baking or broiling rather than frying.
Over consumption contributes to weakening of the heart muscle and to hypertension.
The Dash Diet
Follow the DASH diet. The Dash diet was designed to prevent high blood pressure, but it's also low in fat. The Dash diet is based on a 2,000-calorie-a-day meal plan. Check with your healthcare practitioner about whether the Dash diet may be the right diet for you.
Here is the Dash diet...
To Healthy Living!
About The Author
Dr. Smith is the Chief Medical Consultant for Diet Basics, a content rich web site dedicated to all dieters. Visit http://weight-loss-professional.com/
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