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NHLBIHIN
May 20, 2010

Featured Research

An update on salt, sodium, and DASH

ingredient label showing level of sodium in a product There has been renewed public attention on sodium consumption and its adverse effects on health due in part to a recent report on sodium intake from The Institute of Medicine (IOM) of the National Academies. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan, combined with reduced sodium intake, may help prevent the development of high blood pressure as well as benefit those with prehypertension and hypertension.

High blood pressure (hypertension) affects about one in three adults in the United States and can lead to coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, kidney failure, and other health problems. Decades of NHLBI-supported research published in peer-reviewed journals have established high sodium intake as an important cause of high blood pressure. In addition, several research studies have clearly demonstrated that reducing the amount of sodium in one's diet can significantly lower blood pressure and can help safely prevent or control high blood pressure.

Get the "shakedown" on sodium, salt, and the DASH eating plan

Tip Sheet

In Brief: Your Guide to Lowering Your Blood Pressure with DASH

This 6-page pamphlet provides an overview of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan; helpful tips and hints; a colorful chart for menu planning; and a form to track food and physical activity.

Explore the DASH Guide

NHLBI Diseases and Conditions Index (DCI)

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressureis a serious condition that can lead to coronary heart disease, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, and other health problems. People who have high blood pressure can take steps to control it and reduce their risks for related health problems, including following a healthy lifestyle, having ongoing medical care, and following a prescribed treatment plan.

Learn more about high blood pressure

NHLBI Resources


JNC 7 Express
Report

This report of clinical practice guidelines for hypertension focuses on practical applications, including a treatment algorithm, drug tables, and convenient references.


Hypertension Guidelines
Quick Reference Card
from the JNC 7

The laminated card includes at-a-glance versions of essential JNC 7 evaluation changes, a treatment algorithm, and compelling indications for individual drug classes.


Your Guide to Lowering Your Blood Pressure with DASH

This popular 56-page booklet details the DASH eating plan and includes a week's worth of sample menus and recipes.


Archived page, reproduced from a 2011 copy. It is reference material, not current guidance.