For a patient diagnosed with hypertension, what dietary adjustment should be highlighted by the nurse?

For a patient diagnosed with hypertension, reducing sodium intake is a crucial dietary adjustment to highlight. High sodium levels can contribute to increased blood pressure by causing the body to retain water, which increases blood volume and, consequently, blood pressure. This connection is well-documented in clinical guidelines for managing hypertension, where minimizing salt consumption is a key recommendation.

Advised dietary changes typically include opting for fresh foods over processed ones, using herbs and spices for flavoring instead of salt, and reading labels to choose low-sodium options. This strategy supports overall cardiovascular health and helps manage blood pressure effectively.

In contrast, while increasing calcium intake can be beneficial for some individuals in different contexts, it is not the primary dietary focus for managing hypertension. Similarly, increasing protein intake without specific context may not have a direct impact on hypertension management, and limiting fiber intake is usually not recommended as fiber is important for overall health and can aid in heart health.