Translating the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet from researchto practice: Dietary and behavior change techniques

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) clinical trial demonstra ted that a diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy produ cts, includes whole grains, nuts, fish, and poultry, and is reduced in fats , red meats, sweets, and sugar-containing beverages can be highly effective in lowering blood pressure. The National High Blood Pressure Education Pro gram now suggests the DASH diet for preventing and managing hypertension. F or persons modifying their diets, the DASH diet offers varied choices. Howe ver, simultaneously modifying several dimensions of a diet can be challengi ng, even for knowledgeable and motivated persons. Persons who are uncertain about modifying their diet may become overwhelmed by the needed dietary ch anges. Dietitians and other health care practitioners can help patients ado pt the DASH diet by exploring possible ambivalence, increasing motivation, and strengthening commitment to change, encouraging patients to select diet ary modifications that will fit their lifestyle; and, finally, offering inf ormation about how to change their eating behavior. In this article, we off er dietary advice and counseling suggestions for tailoring interventions to match patients' readiness for adopting the DASH diet.