Women's Health

DASH diet even better for women's hearts

Research we're watching

By , Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch
  • Reviewed by Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing; Contributor

overhead view photo of a plate of healthy food representative of the DASH diet

Following the DASH diet — long proven to lower blood pressure — may also significantly lower the risk of heart problems, especially in women and Black adults, a new study suggests.

The Harvard-led study, published in the Jan. 15, 2023, issue of The American Journal of Cardiology, analyzed data from 459 adults who participated in the original DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) trial between 1994 and 1996, when they were ages 22 through 75. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three eating plans for eight weeks: a typical "Western" diet high in total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol; a diet rich in fruits and vegetables; and the DASH diet, which emphasizes whole grains, lean protein, nuts, and low-fat dairy in addition to fruits and vegetables.

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About the Author

photo of Maureen Salamon

Maureen Salamon, Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch

Maureen Salamon is executive editor of Harvard Women’s Health Watch. She began her career as a newspaper reporter and later covered health and medicine for a wide variety of websites, magazines, and hospitals. Her work has … See Full Bio
View all posts by Maureen Salamon

About the Reviewer

photo of Toni Golen, MD

Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing; Contributor

Dr. Toni Golen is a physician specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, practicing in Boston. Dr. Golen completed her residency training at George Washington University Medical Center in 1995, and is an associate professor at Harvard Medical … See Full Bio
View all posts by Toni Golen, MD

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