The relationship of diet to blood pressure control.

Sodium restriction has become an integral part of the medical management of hypertension. In general the degree of sodium restriction recommended by physicians depends upon the severity of the disease. The commonly prescribed sodium restricted diets are classified as mild and moderate. Mild sodium restriction refers to a diet in which 3.0-4.0 gm of sodium are allowed per day. Moderate sodium restriction is indicated when hypertension is more severe; 1-2 gm of sodium are allowed daily. Sodium added in the processing of foods contributes significantly to the sodium content of the diet. "Convenience" and "fast" foods are high in sodium and are not allowed the hypertensive patients. Significant advances have occurred in the past decade in the medical management of hypertension. The sodium-restricted diet remains the cornerstone of effective blood pressure control. Therefore, nutrition must become an integral part of the hypertensive treatment program.