A STUDY ON COMPARISON OF DIETARY APPROACHES AND MEDICATION COSTS FOR HYPERTENSION TREATMENT

Abstract Hypertension, often termed the silent killer, is a condition marked by elevated blood pressure that poses significant health risks. Studies have established that high serum sodium levels elevate blood pressure, while potassium, magnesium, and vitamins, found abundantly in fruits, vegetables, nuts, low-fat dairy products, fish, and poultry, lower blood pressure. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which emphasizes these foods, has shown beneficial effects in reducing blood pressure in hypertensive patients. This study involves 50 hypertensive patients, assessing lifestyle risk factors, blood pressure levels before and after adopting the DASH diet, and comparing the costs of dietary versus medication approaches. Results indicate that adherence to the DASH diet significantly reduces blood pressure, presenting a viable, cost-effective alternative to medication therapy.