DASH Diet dramatically reduced cardiovascular risks

Lisa Franchi October 01, 2013

Millions of people worldwide take prescription medications daily to keep their blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check, and prevent heart failure. But researchers are giving more credence to a holistic approach which includes proper diet, in reducing the risk of heart disease.

In a study conducted by University of Michigan researchers, diet was found to dramatically affect the progression of heart failure like pharmaceutical drugs do, but with no side effects. For 21 days, participants, ages 60 to 70, who are prone to a common type of heart failure, were asked to strictly follow a specific meal plan designed at the metabolic kitchen of the University of Michigan Clinical Research Unit. Throughout the study, the participants kept a daily journal about the health improvements they have experienced.

The diet plan used in the study was low in salt (sodium) and high in potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants. Participants were not allowed to eat more than 1150 milligrams of sodium, an amount which is 75 per cent lower than the average salt intake in Britain.

DASH Diet dramatically reduced cardiovascular risks

In just three weeks, all elder patients who followed the Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet demonstrated a dramatic improvement in the left ventricular relaxation and a drastic reduction in diastolic chamber stiffness. There was also a significant increase in the efficient blood transfer between heart and arteries.

The patients also showed a drop in blood pressure similar to the effect of anti-hypertension drugs, without the side effects.

A similar study conducted by the University of Exeter also provides evidence that diet can improve heart health like expensive prescription drugs do. Here, researchers found that athletes who drank beet juice experienced dramatic increase in efficient blood transfer between heart and arteries. At the same time, it also increased their exercise capacity by 16 per cent.

A healthy diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals, essential enzymes, and antioxidants, is no doubt the solution to many of our health concerns. Couple it with physical exercise, quality sleep, and rest, and there you’ll have a stronger heart, a fitter body, and a healthier mind.

Source of this article:

Diet dramatically effects progression of heart failure, study finds