Medical Nutrition Therapy for Hypertension and Albuminuria

Abstract

In Brief

Modest weight reduction, the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension eating plan, sodium reduction, physical activity, and moderation in alcohol intake are effective in lowering blood pressure and preventing hypertension. However, combining these lifestyle interventions is more effective than single approaches. Potassium supplementation can help control or prevent hypertension. Other lifestyle factors—dietary fiber, calcium, magnesium, fish oil intakes—have been studied but have uncertain efficacy. To delay the progression of nephropathy, the first priority of medical nutrition therapy is to assist in glucose and blood pressure control. In addition, instituting a low-protein diet has been shown to improve renal function in people with diabetes.