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BU Professor Discusses Dash Diet

Drinking a 16-ounce cup of coffe with four ounces of light cream every day is the equivalent of eating seven sticks of butter every month — a great way to increase blood pressure.

Cutting back on substances like coffee can reduce both hypertension and weight gain, according to Dr. Thomas Moore, director of the Office of Clinical Research at the Boston University Medical Center,

Moore promoted his new book, The Dash Diet for Hypertension, last night as part of the Barnes ‘ Noble Author Series.

Moore, a professor of endocrinology, metabolism and nutrition at BU Medical School and Harvard University Medical School, said 50 million Americans currently suffer from high blood pressure.

“A diet that is low in total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol, and rich in fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products can help reduce high blood pressure,” Moore said. “The Dash Diet is all of these things, and it is easy for the American people to follow.”

High blood pressure causes tremendous wear and tear on blood vessels, as they narrow and cause a decrease in blood flow. As a result of the premature aging of vessels, Americans run the risk of having serious heart attacks and strokes, Moore said.

For the past 25 years, doctors across the nation have treated high blood pressure with medication, yet 30 percent of sufferers are not aware they have the disease, Moore said. He said half of the patients on medication are not adequately treated and are looking for alternatives.

The Dash Diet for Hypertension arose as a result of studying the blood pressure of vegetarians. Results showed those who did not consume meat had lower blood pressures, Moore said.

At the instruction of Moore and a world-class team of nutrition and hypertension experts, a study of 459 people was conducted in five medical centers around the United States. Three different diets were administered to three groups, and results showed high blood pressure decreased while on the Dash Diet.

However, the diet is long-term and is not only for those with hypertension. The Dash Diet has provided a healthier lifestyle for those on it, according to Moore. He said it is designed to lower blood pressure, but it is unlike other diets in that it does not promote weight loss.

“While subjects do not lose a significant amount of weight on the Dash Diet, people are experiencing lower blood pressure and a healthier life style,” Moore said. “The diet is long-term, but is not unhealthy and provides essential vitamins and minerals for those on it.”

Boston University students can easily follow the Dash Diet at the numerous dining halls on campus by following a chart outlining the amount of servings in each of the food groups allowed per day. The diet includes an emphasis on fruits and vegetables, although a significant number of servings of whole grains are included.

“A lot of eating is habit, and all people need to do is become aware of what they are consuming,” Moore said. “The Dash Diet is the easiest diet for non-scientists to follow, while the scientific evidence supporting it is compelling.”

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