Ace the Cardiac Vascular Nursing Exam 2025 – Pump Up Your Success!

The DASH diet, which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, emphasizes low saturated fat intake as a key component for managing hypertension. This diet encourages the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources while minimizing saturated fats and cholesterol. By reducing saturated fat intake, individuals can help lower blood cholesterol levels and improve overall cardiovascular health, making it an effective strategy for hypertension management.

The focus on low saturated fat is grounded in the understanding that high intake of saturated fats can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and exacerbate hypertension. Therefore, choosing healthier fats, such as those found in fish, nuts, and olive oil, is recommended within the DASH framework.

In contrast, the other options do not represent the foundational principles of the DASH diet. High protein intake, increased sodium intake, and high carbohydrate intake do not align with the goals of the DASH diet, which aims to promote heart health through balanced nutrient intake and reduced sodium consumption. This highlights the critical role that low saturated fat plays in both dietary management of hypertension and broader cardiovascular health.