It is also low in saturated and total fats. It emphasizes treating meat as one component of a meal, rather than the centerpiece with other dishes added around it. A diet low in saturated fat, complemented with an increase in fruits, vegetables and dairy products, provides the perfect combination for lowering blood pressure. It offers the benefits of a vegetarian diet, with enough meat to make it an attractive plan for most people. The benefits of the DASH diet can be seen within one week and reach maximum effect after two weeks.
Blood pressure remains stable as long as the patient remains on the diet.
Not only does the DASH diet lower blood pressure, it also can reduce the related risks of heart disease, certain types of cancer and diabetes. So the problem is not just one disease, one condition. The DASH diet was originally part of a nationwide research study by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Other ways to lower blood pressure include reducing salt intake, drinking less alcohol, losing weight and exercising.