Effects of the DASH vs. the Mediterranean Diet Combined With Salt Restriction on Blood Pressure Levels in Adults

Patients assigned to the SRG continued to consume their usual diet, but they had to restrict their sodium intake to 2,000 mg/ day. They were given a detailed booklet containing information about table salt, foods rich in sodium, and practical ways to decrease salt consumption. During each 45-min individual session, they received intensive counselling and training to increase adherence to salt restriction. Also, they were instructed to keep their body weight stable and not to change their physical activity level over the next 3 months.

Patients assigned to the DDG received a more extensive booklet, which which in addition to the information regarding salt restriction, contained detailed information about the DASH diet, and practical advice about how to start and stay on the assigned dietary pattern. In addition to the booklet, each patient received an individualized eating plan with six sample daily menus, incorporating the goals of the DASH diet. During the 45-min individual sessions, patients were intensively counselled and trained to increase adherence to salt restriction and the assigned dietary pattern. Also, they were instructed to keep their body weight stable and not to change their physical activity level over the next 3 months.

Patients assigned to the MDG received a more extensive booklet, which which in addition to the information regarding salt restriction, contained detailed information about the MedDiet, and practical advice about how to start and stay on the assigned dietary pattern. In addition to the booklet, each patient received an individualized eating plan with six sample daily menus, incorporating the goals of the MedDiet diet. During the 45-min individual sessions, patients were intensively counselled and trained to increase adherence to salt restriction and the assigned dietary pattern. Also, they were instructed to keep their body weight stable and not to change their physical activity level over the next 3 months.