It is a major contributor to the development of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and renal failure. The higher the systolic or the diastolic pressure, the greater the risk of coronary heart disease. Some authorities argue that the argument was due not only to the low protein, low fat, low sodium diet, but also due to the weight loss and rest under hospital conditions. Calories An obese patient must reduce to normal bodyweight with low calorie diet as recommended for obesity. About 40 to 50 grams fat, partly as vegetable oil, is permitted.
Carbohydrates Easily digestible carbohydrates are of great help.
The micronutrients affecting blood pressure are sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. All patients with high blood pressure are advised to limit salt intake. Dietary potassium restriction increases blood pressure in patients with hypertension. If diuretics are administered to a patient with high blood pressure, supplements of fruit juices or potassium salts, such as 2 to 4 grams potassium citrate thrice a day, are administered. Increase in potassium intake is claimed to reduce blood pressure.