Dietary alteration or intervention is an ideal method of preventing or treating
hypertension. Medication may be eliminated or reduced in many cases. Correction of
obesity and
alcohol abuse are confirmed methods of treating
hypertension. Reduction of
sodium intake is effective in that portion of the population which is
salt-sensitive. Probably, the ratio of
sodium to
potassium is of importance and increasing
potassium intake while reducing
sodium intake is effective in many situations. Evidence is being reported which indicates that adequate intake of
calcium, and perhaps
magnesium, is effective in preventing
hypertension. Limited information indicates that a sufficiency of dietary
essential fatty acids and fibre are effective in
hypertension prevention. The role of
dietary protein,
carbohydrates, fat,
cholesterol,
vitamins, and essential elements (other than those mentioned above) in the pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated at this time, but there are indications that adequate intakes are beneficial in
hypertension. Water hardness may have some effect in reducing
hypertension incidence, and any effectiveness would probably result from
calcium and
magnesium in the
drinking water. Animal studies and limited human studies indicate some detrimental effects of
heavy metals, such as lead and
cadmium, upon the pathogenesis of
hypertension. Information regarding
caffeine intake is inconclusive.