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A recent clinical trial has demonstrated that a diabetes-adapted DASH diet, when combined with reduced sodium intake, effectively lowers blood pressure in adults with type 2 diabetes—even among those already on multiple antihypertensive medications.
The study, conducted at a single site in Maryland between June 2021 and December 2023, enrolled 102 adults with type 2 diabetes (mean age 66 years; 66% women). Participants had an average baseline blood pressure of 135/75 mm Hg, with the majority taking at least two blood pressure medications and over half using two or more glucose-lowering drugs. Researchers tested four different diets in sequence over five weeks each: a modified DASH diet (DASH4D) with lower sodium, DASH4D with higher sodium, a typical US diet with lower sodium, and a typical US diet with higher sodium. Sodium levels were set at either 1500 mg/day (lower) or 3700 mg/day (higher), within a 2000-kcal daily menu.
Compared to those on the typical US diet with higher sodium, participants who followed the DASH4D diet with lower sodium saw an average reduction in systolic blood pressure of 4.6 mm Hg and a diastolic reduction of 2.3 mm Hg after five weeks. Among those on the DASH4D diet, the difference between lower and higher sodium intake alone resulted in a systolic BP reduction of 4.8 mm Hg. Most reductions in blood pressure occurred within the first three weeks of each diet period, and adherence to the diet was high at 96%.
The study’s authors highlighted that these findings provide strong evidence for the efficacy of dietary changes—particularly sodium reduction—in managing blood pressure among people with type 2 diabetes, even in those already on multiple medications. The DASH4D diet was well tolerated and acceptable to participants, with a low frequency of adverse events.
Implications for Public Health
This research adds to a growing body of evidence supporting the benefits of reducing sodium intake for cardiovascular health. Recent studies have shown that salt substitution and reduced sodium intake can lead to significant reductions in stroke and death, with no increased risk of adverse effects such as hyperkalemia. The World Health Organization and other health agencies are now calling for stricter sodium limits in the food supply to combat the global burden of diet-related diseases.
Disclaimer:
This news article is based on recent clinical research and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or dietary changes. The findings described here may not be applicable to everyone and should be interpreted in the context of individual health needs.
