Researchers estimate that widespread adoption of lifestyle changes, such as limiting alcohol consumption and exercising regularly, could prevent thousands of deaths and reduce health care costs. The analysis showed that switching to the DASH diet would be most beneficial, preventing 15,000 cases of heart disease in men and 11,000 in women.
The DASH meal plan is specifically designed to help manage blood pressure. The diet limits foods containing fruits, vegetables, lean meats, nuts, seeds, and grains, as well as red meat, sodium, sugar, and sugar-sweetened beverages.
To model the incidence of heart disease and stroke, mortality, and health care costs between 2018 and 2027, the researchers used data from published meta-analyses and trial data on the effect of lifestyle changes on lowering blood pressure: dietary changes, sustained weight loss, physical activity, smoking cessation, and moderate alcohol consumption. About half of the study population were women, and 61% had regular access to healthcare.
The study will be discussed in greater detail at the American Heart Association Hypertension Science Sessions 2022, which continues through September 10 in San Diego.
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Source: Ferra
