What is the recommended dietary approach for managing hypertension?

The recommended dietary approach for managing hypertension emphasizes the importance of reducing sodium intake. A diet low in sodium helps lower blood pressure by reducing fluid retention and improving blood vessel function. This approach is foundational in nutrition strategies aimed at managing hypertension, as excessive sodium can lead to increased blood volume and higher blood pressure.

While options involving the addition of potassium and calcium are beneficial for overall heart health and may support blood pressure regulation, the core tenet remains the reduction of sodium as the primary approach. Potassium can help counteract the effects of sodium and is encouraged, hence the mention of high potassium in some options; however, sodium restriction stands out as the more critical element in contemporary dietary recommendations for hypertension management. Thus, the focus on a low sodium diet captures the essence of dietary modifications needed for effective hypertension control.