High blood pressure is one of the greatest risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
For this reason, health authorities are increasingly focusing on prevention rather than treatment.
The World Health Organization (WHO) (1) highlights diet as one of the most important tools for reducing the risk of hypertension and related conditions.
According to National Geographic, years of research show that long-term dietary patterns have a greater impact than short-term diets.
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This has led to renewed interest in older dietary models developed on the basis of clinical studies.
In Denmark as well, health authorities recommend a varied diet with vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins as part of efforts to prevent lifestyle-related diseases.
Research behind the recommendations
One of the most well-documented dietary models was developed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute in the United States.
According to National Geographic, it is based on a large clinical study published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 1997.
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The study showed that participants experienced lower blood pressure after just eight weeks, solely through changes in their diet.
A key difference from many modern diets is that it does not ban specific foods but instead focuses on balance and overall composition.
Why the diet works
According to National Geographic, salt intake plays a central role.
The diet recommends around 1,500 milligrams of sodium per day, which is significantly lower than average intake.
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The WHO (2) also recommends reduced salt intake to help lower blood pressure.
In addition, the diet emphasizes foods rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which support blood vessel function.
Kate Zeratsky from the Mayo Clinic points out that this mineral balance is important for the circulatory system.
The dietary model in question is the DASH diet. It continues to be used because it is evidence-based, simple, and focused on long-term health rather than quick results.
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Sources: National Geographic, WHO (1), National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, The New England Journal of Medicine, WHO (2) og Mayo Clinic.
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