A study which was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that the popular “DASH” diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) reduces heart stress and damage which often results in heart disease. The diet emphasizes consuming fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products, as well as shole grains, poultry, fish and nuts. This sounds similar to
the Mediterranean diet, with a focus on avoiding red meat. The Mayo Clinic says that the diet encourages the reduction of sodium and is a “lifelong approach to healthy eating that’s designed to help treat or prevent high blood pressure.” Another study which was done by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center at Harvard Medical School found that it reduced cholesterol and blood pressure and lowers damage to cardiac heart muscles.