What does the acronym DASH stand for in dietary recommendations?

The acronym DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. This dietary plan was specifically created to help manage and reduce high blood pressure through nutritious, balanced eating. The DASH diet emphasizes the consumption of whole foods that are rich in nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products while minimizing saturated fats, sugars, and sodium.

This approach is backed by research showing its effectiveness in lowering blood pressure and improving overall health. The focus on promoting heart health through dietary choices has made the DASH diet widely recognized not just for hypertension management, but also as a sustainable lifestyle choice for maintaining general health and wellness. The recognition of DASH as a structured dietary framework highlights its objective to combat hypertension and supports its relevance in dietary education and coaching.