Dash Diet Tips

The DASH diet is based on the research studies: Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, and has been proven to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and improve insulin sensitivity. Your doctor may have recommended this eating plan; it is also recommended;

• Make a list. Before shopping, decide which meals you're going to make during the coming week and include the ingredients on your shopping list. Don't forget to plan for breakfast and snacks, too.
  
• Eat before you shop. This is a cardinal rule of grocery shopping.
• Stick to the perimeter. The outer aisles of most grocery stores are where you'll find the healthier DASH diet items, such as produce and dairy goods. The inner sections and special displays are designed to entice shoppers with more snacks, sweets and processed foods.
• Buy fresh. Fresh foods often are better choices than are processed foods because they naturally contain less sodium and fat, two items the DASH diet cuts back on.
  
• Read nutrition labels. Most foods in the United States carry a Nutrition Facts label that can help you figure out how they fit into your DASH diet.