Hypertension is also known as high blood pressure (HBP), which is a long-term medical
condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. Majorly it is
misunderstood by the people as high tension but, it is generally a result of bad lifestyle(smoking, lack of physical activity, obesity), bad dietary practices, high cholesterol and coexisting disease like diabetes.
Blood pressure is generally measured in two parts: systolic and diastolic, which are generally
contraction and relaxation of the heart during the pumping of blood, The normal range for blood
pressure is 120 /80 mmHg.
The long-term effects of this pressure may cause the heart to fail. In addition, high blood pressure
damages arteries to the brain, heart, kidneys, and eyes resulting in complications like stroke,
heart attack, kidney failure, visual problems, and even dementia.
Researchers suggest that people with hypertension may see a greater reduction in blood pressure
after following the DIETARY APPROACHES TO STOP HYPERTENSION (DASH) rather
then going on medications.
DASH diet – supported by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute is an eating plan
consisting of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, poultry, fish and fat-free and low-fat
dairy product. the diet limits foods high in saturated fats and sugar.
So, results add to the evidence that dietary interventions are as effective as or more effective than
antihypertensive drugs.