NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)Foundational Knowledge and Basic ScienceHard
A medical assistant is educating a patient newly diagnosed with hypertension about lifestyle modifications. Which of the following dietary recommendations is most effective in managing blood pressure according to the DASH diet principles?
- AReduced intake of saturated and total fats
- BIncreased consumption of red meat and processed foods
- CLimiting intake of fruits and vegetables
- DHigh-sodium intake to balance electrolytes
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Reduced intake of saturated and total fats
The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet emphasizes reducing saturated and total fats, along with sodium, and increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy to help lower blood pressure.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Increased red meat and processed foods are high in saturated fat and sodium, which are discouraged by the DASH diet.
- C. The DASH diet strongly encourages increased intake of fruits and vegetables, as they are rich in potassium, magnesium, and fiber, which help lower blood pressure.
- D. High-sodium intake is detrimental to blood pressure and directly contradicts DASH principles, which advocate for low sodium.
DASH Diet Principles
A dietary pattern specifically designed to lower blood pressure, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy, while limiting saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium.
- Reduces blood pressure effectively.
- Rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
- Low in sodium, saturated fat, and added sugars.
Memory trick: DASH: 'Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension' - Decrease Salt and Saturated fats, Have more Fruits and Veggies!