Carmen, age 34, has had hypertension since she was a teenager, as do many members of her immediate family. At a visit to the doctor one year ago after her twin brother had suffered an acute episode of hypertension requiring hospitalization, Carmen decided to seriously attempt to reduce her sodium and salt intakes. She has successfully mastered a low-sodium diet by: eliminating the use of a salt shaker; ordering fresh, no-salt-added foods in restaurants; avoiding salty condiments; avoiding ready-to-eat foods; and using herbs and salt-free seasonings. She has recently begun reading labels and following portions of the DASH diet. Her doctor tells her to expect a further reduction in her blood pressure if she can master the DASH diet.
-Carmen's daily sodium intake should not exceed _____ milligrams, as the DASH Eating Plan is even more effective when accompanied by a low sodium intake.

Question

Carmen, age 34, has had hypertension since she was a teenager, as do many members of her immediate family. At a visit to the doctor one year ago after her twin brother had suffered an acute episode of hypertension requiring hospitalization, Carmen decided to seriously attempt to reduce her sodium and salt intakes. She has successfully mastered a low-sodium diet by: eliminating the use of a salt shaker; ordering fresh, no-salt-added foods in restaurants; avoiding salty condiments; avoiding ready-to-eat foods; and using herbs and salt-free seasonings. She has recently begun reading labels and following portions of the DASH diet. Her doctor tells her to expect a further reduction in her blood pressure if she can master the DASH diet.
-Carmen's daily sodium intake should not exceed _____ milligrams, as the DASH Eating Plan is even more effective when accompanied by a low sodium intake.​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the American Heart Association and the DASH diet, the recommended daily intake of sodium for individuals with hypertension or at risk for hypertension is 1500 milligrams or less. Carmen's successful low-sodium diet, combined with the DASH Eating Plan, can lead to a further reduction in her blood pressure. Therefore, her daily sodium intake should not exceed 1500 milligrams.

Carmen, Age 34, Has Had Hypertension Since She Was a Teenager