DASH
(Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension)
What is the DASH Eating plan?
The DASH eating plan, which stands for ‘Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension’ is a popular eating plan that is recommended for the prevention and treatment of hypertension (or high blood pressure).
Even if you don’t have hypertension, the DASH eating plan is also ideal for shedding unwanted pounds as well as lowering cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It is a flexible plan that does not require any special foods and offers a variety of choices to fit individual tastes.
Follow these basic steps to begin living the DASH way:
1. Decrease your sodium intake.
The typical New Zealand diet contains too much sodium, which is a major contributor to high blood pressure.
• Toss the salt shaker—Try substituting herbs, spices, lemon, lime,vinegar, or wine for added flavor.
• Read the nutrition label—Processed foods have the highest sodium content. Choose “low sodium” foods, which contain 5% or less of the daily value (DV) of sodium.
• Be aware of your total sodium intake—The DASH plan recommends an intake of no more than 2,300 mg of sodium per day.
2. Load up on fruits and vegetables.
• Consume a variety of colors to get the maximum nutritional benefit.
• Fresh, frozen, canned, and dried produce are all acceptable choices. However, be aware of the sodium content of canned foods and the sugar content of dried fruits.
• Whole fruits and vegetables are preferred over juice, although 100% fruit or vegetable juices are acceptable in moderation.
3. Make most of your grains “whole grains.”
• “Whole grain” foods include products that list the whole grain(s) first or second on the ingredient list, Check for ‘high fibre’ content on breads, and make the switch from white to brown pasta/rice.
4. Switch to low-fat or fat-free dairy products.
5. Eat lean meats, poultry, fish, and eggs.
• Limit fatty and processed meats, which have high saturated fat content.
6. Consume nuts, seeds, and legumes (cooked, dried beans and peas)
• Nuts contain heart-healthy fats, but are higher in calories. Pay close attention to serving sizes
7. Use fats and oils sparingly
• Reduce your intake of saturated fat and especially steer clear of artery clogging “trans fats,” which are both listed on the nutrition label. Trans fats can also be spotted as “partially hydrogenated oils” in the ingredient list.
8. Decrease your intake of sweets and added sugars
• Instead of calling certain foods “off limits,” allow junk food in moderation.
9. Combine DASH with regular physical activity
• A physically active lifestyle is essential for avoiding or controlling chronic diseases, weight loss, and overall health
(Source: American Council on Exercise)
Real • Achievable • Health & Fitness
Hutt Valley Personal Trainer