Cardiologist Jose Abellan has declared the DASH diet to be the most effective eating plan for treating and preventing hypertension.
Speaking to Spanish news outlet Deia, Abellan explained that proper nutrition plays a central role in managing high blood pressure and reducing long-term cardiovascular risks.
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, affects millions of adults worldwide. The condition occurs when the force of blood pushing against artery walls remains consistently elevated. Over time, this persistent strain weakens blood vessels, increases workload on the heart, and raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
How the DASH Diet Works
According to Abellan, the DASH diet was developed specifically for the prevention and treatment of high blood pressure. The regimen relies on two primary dietary shifts: decreasing sodium intake while increasing foods rich in potassium.
Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, known as the DASH diet, is a dietary framework designed to emphasize nutrient-dense whole foods over processed ingredients. High sodium consumption triggers fluid retention that increases arterial pressure, whereas potassium helps balance sodium levels and relaxes blood vessel walls.
Abellan advised individuals with high blood pressure to minimize salt in their daily diet. He recommended building meals around fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and high-quality protein sources while limiting saturated fats.
Saturated fats, commonly found in fatty cuts of meat, butter, and heavy dairy products, can contribute to plaque accumulation in arteries, making dietary moderation essential for vascular health.
Combining Diets for Heart Protection
The cardiologist noted that patients do not need to follow the DASH diet in isolation. He stated that the eating pattern can be smoothly integrated into the traditional Mediterranean diet.
Abellan said that combining the two approaches improves blood pressure protection without losing any of the cardiovascular benefits offered by Mediterranean eating habits.
The Mediterranean diet centers on fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, and heart-healthy fats such as extra virgin olive oil. Medical reference sources recognize this eating pattern for supporting healthy blood vessels and lowering overall cardiac risk.
Morning Meals for Cardiovascular Health
Abellan is not the only heart specialist offering specific dietary guidance for cardiovascular wellness. Cardiologist Srihari Naidu previously shared his recommendation for an ideal heart-healthy morning meal, advising people to include hard-boiled eggs in their breakfast routine.
