Dietary Approaches To Stop Hypertension Adherence Research Articles

Adapted Mindfulness Training for Interoception and Adherence to the DASH Diet

Hypertension is a major cause of cardiovascular disease, and although the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet lowers blood pressure (BP), adherence is typically low. Mindfulness training adapted to improving health behaviors that lower BP could improve DASH adherence, in part through improved interoceptive awareness relevant to dietary consumption. To evaluate the effects of the Mindfulness-Based Blood Pressure Reduction (MB-BP) program on interoceptive awareness and DASH adherence. Parallel-group, phase 2, sequentially preregistered randomized clinical trials were conducted from June 1, 2017, to November 30, 2020. Follow-up was 6 months. Participants with elevated unattended office BP (≥120/80 mm Hg) were recruited from the population near Providence, Rhode Island. Of 348 participants assessed for eligibility, 67 did not meet inclusion criteria, 17 declined, and 63 did not enroll prior to study end date. In total, 201 participants were randomly assigned, 101 to the MB-BP program and 100 to the enhanced usual care control group, with 24 (11.9%) unavailable for follow-up. Outcome assessors and the data analyst were blinded to group allocation. Analyses were performed using intention-to-treat principles from June 1, 2022, to August 30, 2023. The 8-week MB-BP program was adapted for elevated BP, including personalized feedback, education, and mindfulness training directed to hypertension risk factors. Both MB-BP and control groups received home BP monitoring devices with instructions and options for referral to primary care physicians. The control group also received educational brochures on controlling high BP. The primary outcome was Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA) questionnaire scores (range 0-5, with higher scores indicating greater interoceptive awareness), and the secondary outcome was DASH adherence scores assessed via a 163-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (range 0-11, with higher scores indicating improved DASH adherence), all compared using regression analyses. Among 201 participants, 118 (58.7%) were female, 163 (81.1%) were non-Hispanic White, and the mean (SD) age was 60.0 (12.2) years. The MB-BP program increased the MAIA score by 0.54 points (95% CI, 0.35-0.74 points; P < .001; Cohen d = 0.45) at 6 months vs control. In participants with poor baseline DASH adherence, the MB-BP program also significantly increased the DASH score by 0.62 points (95% CI, 0.13-1.11 points; P = .01; Cohen d = 0.71) at 6 months vs controls. The intervention was also associated with a 0.34-point improvement in the DASH diet score in all MB-BP participants from baseline (95% CI, 0.09-0.59 points; P = .01; Cohen d = 0.27), while the control group showed a -0.04 point change in DASH diet score from baseline to 6 months (95% CI, -0.31 to 0.24 points; P = .78; Cohen d = -0.03). A mindfulness program adapted to improving health behaviors to lower BP improved interoceptive awareness and DASH adherence. The MB-BP program could support DASH dietary adherence in adults with elevated BP. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifiers: NCT03859076 and NCT03256890.

Association of Three Different Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet Indices with Renal Function in Renal Transplant Recipients.

Several dietary indices assess the impacts of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet on health outcomes. We explored DASH adherence and renal function among 85 Taiwanese renal transplant recipients (RTRs) in a cross-sectional study. Data collection included demographics, routine laboratory data, and 3-day dietary records. Three separate DASH indices, that defined by Camões (based on nine nutrients), that defined by Fung (using seven food groups and sodium), and that modified by Fung (as above but separated for men and women) were used. Renal function was ascertained through the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) from patients' medical records. Participants' mean age was 49.7 ± 12.6 years and eGFR was 54.71 ± 21.48 mL/min/1.73 m2. The three established DASH diet indices displayed significant correlations (r = 0.50-0.91) and indicated the nutritional adequacy of the diet. Multiple linear regressions indicated a significant positive association between higher DASH scores for each index and increased eGFR. In addition, RTRs in the highest DASH score tertile had higher eGFR rates than those in the lowest tertile, regardless of confounding variables. Adherence to a DASH-style diet correlated with better renal function among RTRs. Educating RTRs about the DASH diet may prevent graft function deterioration.

Blood pressure interactions with the DASH dietary pattern, sodium, and potassium: The International Study of Macro-/Micronutrients and Blood Pressure (INTERMAP)

ABSTRACTBackgroundAdherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet enhances potassium intake and reduces sodium intake and blood pressure (BP), but the underlying metabolic pathways are unclear.ObjectivesAmong free-living populations, we delineated metabolic signatures associated with the DASH diet adherence, 24-hour urinary sodium and potassium excretions, and the potential metabolic pathways involved.MethodsWe used 24-hour urinary metabolic profiling by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to characterize the metabolic signatures associated with the DASH dietary pattern score (DASH score) and 24-hour excretion of sodium and potassium among participants in the United States (n = 2164) and United Kingdom (n = 496) enrolled in the International Study of Macro- and Micronutrients and Blood Pressure (INTERMAP). Multiple linear regression and cross-tabulation analyses were used to investigate the DASH-BP relation and its modulation by sodium and potassium. Potential pathways associated with DASH adherence, sodium and potassium excretion, and BP were identified using mediation analyses and metabolic reaction networks.ResultsAdherence to the DASH diet was associated with urinary potassium excretion (correlation coefficient, r = 0.42; P < 0.0001). In multivariable regression analyses, a 5-point higher DASH score (range, 7 to 35) was associated with a lower systolic BP by 1.35 mmHg (95% CI, −1.95 to −0.80 mmHg; P = 1.2 × 10−5); control of the model for potassium but not sodium attenuated the DASH-BP relation. Two common metabolites (hippurate and citrate) mediated the potassium-BP and DASH-BP relationships, while 5 metabolites (succinate, alanine, S-methyl cysteine sulfoxide, 4-hydroxyhippurate, and phenylacetylglutamine) were found to be specific to the DASH-BP relation.ConclusionsGreater adherence to the DASH diet is associated with lower BP and higher potassium intake across levels of sodium intake. The DASH diet recommends greater intake of fruits, vegetables, and other potassium-rich foods that may replace sodium-rich processed foods and thereby influence BP through overlapping metabolic pathways. Possible DASH-specific pathways are speculated but confirmation requires further study. INTERMAP is registered as NCT00005271 at www.clinicaltrials.gov.

Self-Perceived Barriers and Facilitators to Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet Adherence Among Black Americans With Chronic Kidney Disease: A Qualitative Study

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan improves hypertension in Black individuals and is associated with favorable chronic kidney disease (CKD) outcomes. Yet, adherence to DASH is low among US adults in general, particularly among Black Americans. We assessed perceptions about DASH, its cultural compatibility, and barriers and facilitators to DASH adherence in Black adults with CKD. We conducted focus groups and semistructured individual interviews involving 22 Black men and women with CKD Stages 3-4 from outpatient clinics at a US academic medical center. Transcripts of audio-recorded interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Among participants (2 focus groups [N=8 and 5] and 9 individual interviews), 13 (59%) had CKD Stage 3, 13 (59%) were female, the median age was 61years, and 19 (90%) had hypertension. After receiving information about DASH, participants perceived it as culturally compatible based on 3 emergent themes: (1) Black individuals already eat DASH-recommended foods ("Blacks eat pretty much like this"), (2) traditional recipes (e.g., southern or soul food) can be modified into healthy versions ("you can come up with decent substitutes to make it just as good"), and ( 3) diet is not uniform among Black individuals ("I can't say that I eat traditional"). Perceived barriers to DASH adherence included unfamiliarity with serving sizes, poor cooking skills, unsupportive household members, and high cost of healthy food. Eleven (52%) reported after paying monthly bills that they "rarely" or "never" had leftover money to purchase healthy food. Perceived facilitators included having local access to healthy food, living alone or with supportive household members, and having willpower and internal/external motivation for change. Black adults with CKD viewed DASH as a healthy, culturally compatible diet. Recognizing that diet in Black adults is not uniform, interventions should emphasize person-centered, rather than stereotypically culture-centered, approaches to DASH adherence.

Adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is associated with low levels of insulin resistance among heart failure patients

Background and aimsHeart failure (HF) patients are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This study examined the association between adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and insulin resistance among U.S. adults with HF. Methods and resultsUsing data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2016 cycles, we included 348 individuals aged 20+ years with HF and no history of diabetes. DASH diet adherence index quartile 1 indicated the lowest and quartile 4 indicated the highest adherence. The highest level of insulin resistance was defined by the upper tertile of the Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). Associations between level of insulin resistance and DASH diet adherence and its linear trends were examined using logistic regressions. Trend analyses showed that participants in upper DASH diet adherence index quartiles were more likely older, female, non-Hispanic White, of normal weight, and had lower levels of fasting insulin than those in lower quartiles. Median values of HOMA-IR from lowest to highest DASH diet adherence index quartiles were 3.1 (interquartile range, 1.8–5.5), 2.9 (1.7–5.6), 2.1 (1.1–3.7), and 2.1 (1.3–3.5). Multivariable logistic analyses indicated that participants with the highest compared to the lowest DASH adherence showed 77.1% lower odds of having the highest level of insulin resistance (0.229, 95% confidence interval: 0.073–0.716; p = 0.017 for linear trend). ConclusionGood adherence to the DASH diet was associated with lower insulin resistance among community-dwelling HF patients. Heart healthy dietary patterns likely protect HF patients from developing type 2 diabetes.

Abstract 12649: Associations Between Diet Adherence Scores and Cardiac Structure and Function in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos

Introduction: The Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets are associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes. We assessed associations between adherence to these diets and measures of left ventricular (LV) structure and function from the Echocardiographic Study of Latinos (Echo-SOL) ancillary study. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that increased adherence to AHEI or DASH diets would be associated with better cardiac structure and function. Methods: Cross-sectional baseline data from two 24-hour dietary recalls were used to calculate AHEI and DASH adherence scores among 1818 adults (57% female, mean age 56 ± 0.17) with complete echocardiographic assessments. Adherence scores were calculated based on decile of each food group for each score, with higher scores signifying higher adherence (AHEI: 0-110, DASH: 0-80). Associations between adherence scores and echo outcomes were analyzed via simple linear regression as well as ANOVA across quintiles of each score. All analyses were weighted to account for complex survey design. Results: Mean ± SE diet scores were 49.9 ± 0.32 for AHEI and 43.2 ± 0.33 for DASH. Higher AHEI scores were associated with better ejection fraction (EF) (1.1% per 10-point increase, p &lt; 0.01) and higher left atrial volume index (1.6 ml/m 2 per 10-point increase, p &lt; 0.01). Higher DASH scores were directly associated with EF (0.3% per 10-point increase, p &lt; 0.01) and inversely associated with LV mass (-4.4g per 10-point increase, p &lt; 0.01). In quintile analysis, better global longitudinal strain was seen across increasing quintiles of AHEI score (Figure). Conclusions: Adherence to AHEI and DASH diets was associated with more favorable cardiac structure and function. Pre-heart failure (HF) is an independent risk factor for incident clinical HF development. These findings have important implications for HF prevention.

Metabolomic profiling of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet provides novel insights for the nutritional epidemiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is inversely associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk. Metabolic changes due to DASH adherence and their potential relationship with incident T2DM have not been described. The objective is to determine metabolite clusters associated with adherence to a DASH-like diet in the Insulin Resistance Atherosclerosis Study cohort and explore if the clusters predicted 5-year incidence of T2DM. The current study included 570 non-diabetic multi-ethnic participants aged 40–69 years. Adherence to a DASH-like diet was determined a priori through an eighty-point scale for absolute intakes of the eight DASH food groups. Quantitative measurements of eighty-seven metabolites (acylcarnitines, amino acids, bile acids, sterols and fatty acids) were obtained at baseline. Metabolite clusters related to DASH adherence were determined through partial least squares (PLS) analysis using R. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression was used to explore the associations between metabolite clusters and incident T2DM. A group of acylcarnitines and fatty acids loaded strongly on the two components retained under PLS. Among strongly loading metabolites, a select group of acylcarnitines had over 50 % of their individual variance explained by the PLS model. Component 2 was inversely associated with incident T2DM (OR: 0·89; (95 % CI 0·80, 0·99), P-value = 0·043) after adjustment for demographic and metabolic covariates. Component 1 was not associated with T2DM risk (OR: 1·02; (95 % CI 0·88, 1·19), P-value = 0·74). Adherence to a DASH-type diet may contribute to reduced T2DM risk in part through modulations in acylcarnitine and fatty acid physiology.

The Nourish Protocol: A digital health randomized controlled trial to promote the DASH eating pattern among adults with hypertension

IntroductionOver 100 million adults in the United States have hypertension. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating pattern is an evidence-based first-line treatment option for hypertension; however, adherence to the DASH eating pattern at a population level remains low. To address this gap, we will implement Nourish, a randomized controlled efficacy trial that will leverage a commercially-available smartphone application and evidence-based behavior change principles to improve adherence to the DASH eating pattern among adults with hypertension. MethodsThe Nourish trial is a two-arm, 12-month randomized control trial that will enroll adults (N = 300) with hypertension, defined as a systolic blood pressure of 120–159 mmHg; a diastolic blood pressure of 80–99 mmHg; and/or adults on blood pressure-lowering medication. Nourish will test the efficacy of a digital health intervention, as compared to the attention control arm, on DASH eating pattern adherence and blood pressure. Intervention components will include skills training, self-monitoring, personalized feedback, and responsive coaching. The primary outcome of the trial is 6-month changes in adherence to the DASH eating pattern, as measured by 24-h dietary recalls. DiscussionMillions of Americans remain in need of effective behavioral interventions to manage and improve their hypertension and its adverse consequences. The ubiquity of smartphones offers a promising approach to disseminate the DASH eating pattern. By leveraging these widely used smartphone applications, combined with evidence-based behavior change principles and the DASH eating plan, Nourish will demonstrate the effectiveness of a digital health intervention to improve DASH adherence, and ultimately, to reduce blood pressure.Trial Number: NCT03875

Abstract MP32: The Level Of Adherence To The Dietary Approaches To Stop Hypertension Diet Is Associated With The Severity Of Insulin Resistance Among Community-Dwelling Heart Failure Patients: A National Health And Nutrition Examination Survey Analysis

Introduction: Heart failure (HF) patients are at risk of new-onset diabetes. In non-HF populations, adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet has shown to be associated with the delayed onset of insulin resistance; however, such effect remains unknown in HF patients without history of diabetes. Methods: Using data from 1999-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey cycles, we included 348 HF participants (20+ years) without history of diabetes or diabetes medication use and with data on at least one 24-hour dietary recall. Participants were classified by DASH dietary index score quartiles: quartile 1 indicated lowest DASH index scores and lowest DASH adherence, whereas quartile 4 indicated highest DASH index scores and highest DASH adherence. The severity of insulin resistance was examined using the Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance and was further classified by tertiles, where the upper tertile showed the most severe insulin resistance. Associations between the severity of insulin resistance and DASH dietary adherence and its linear trends were examined using logistic regression models. Results: Participants had a mean age of 65±1 (SE) years, 44.2% were female, and 10.5% were non-Hispanic black. The age-, gender-, and race/ethnicity-adjusted odds ratio for the most severe insulin resistance group in participants with highest DASH adherence was 0.32 (95% CI, 0.11-0.99), compared to participants with lowest DASH adherence. A significant trend of more severe insulin resistance was observed as participants showed less adherence to the DASH diet (p=0.02). Conclusion: Adherence to a DASH dietary pattern was associated with improved insulin resistance among community-dwelling HF patients in the U.S. Heart healthy dietary patterns may protect HF patients against new-onset diabetes. Future research is needed to test dietary interventions aimed at the prevention of HF complications and comorbidities.

Dietary Habits and Medications to Control Hypertension Among Women of Child-Bearing Age in the United States from 2001 to 2016.

Hypertension (HTN) in pregnancy is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality in the United States. Although the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is recommended for all adults with HTN, rates of DASH adherence and antihypertensive medication use in women of child-bearing age are unknown. Our objectives were to determine DASH adherence and antihypertensive medication use in women of child-bearing age. In the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys from 2001 to 2016, we estimated DASH adherence among women of child-bearing age (20-50 years). We derived a DASH score (0-9) based on 9 nutrients, with DASH adherence defined as DASH score ≥4.5. HTN was defined by blood pressure (BP) ≥130/80 mm Hg or antihypertensive medication use. DASH scores were compared across BP categories and antihypertensive medication use was categorized. Of the 7,782 women, the mean age (SE) was 32.8 (0.2) years, 21.4% were non-Hispanic Black, and 20.3% had HTN. The mean DASH score was 2.11 (0.06) for women with self-reported HTN and 2.40 (0.03) for women with normal BP (P < 0.001). DASH adherence was prevalent in 6.5% of women with self-reported HTN compared with 10.1% of women with normal BP (P < 0.05). Self-reported HTN is predominantly managed with medications (84.8%), while DASH adherence has not improved in these women from 2001 to 2016. Moreover, 39.5% of US women of child-bearing age are taking medications contraindicated in pregnancy. Given the benefits of optimized BP during pregnancy, this study highlights the critical need to improve DASH adherence and guide prescribing among women of child-bearing age.

Feasibility of a Digital Health Intervention to Improve Diet Quality Among Women With High Blood Pressure: Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial.

BackgroundOver 100 million individuals have high blood pressure, and more than half of them are women. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) dietary pattern is a proven lifestyle approach to lower blood pressure, yet population-level adherence is poor. Innovative strategies that promote DASH are needed.ObjectiveThis paper aims to improve adherence to the DASH diet among women with hypertension or prehypertension.MethodsWe conducted a 3-month randomized controlled feasibility trial comparing app-based diet tracking (active comparator) to app-based diet tracking plus feedback on DASH adherence via text message (intervention). The intervention platform extracted nutrient data from the app, compared it to DASH recommendations, and sent tailored feedback text messages. Outcomes included the number of days participants tracked their diet, changes in their DASH adherence score, and blood pressure.ResultsThe women (N=59) had a mean age of 49.9 (SD 11.9) years and were primarily non-Hispanic White (41/59, 69%) and college educated (49/59, 83%). The mean baseline DASH score was 2.3 (SD 1.3). At 3 months, the intervention and active comparator participants had similar mean days tracked per week (4.2, SD 2.1 days vs 4.6, SD 2.7 days; P=.54) and mean changes in their DASH score (0.8, 95% CI 0.2-1.5 vs 0.8, 95% CI 0.4-1.2; P=.75). Intervention participants had lower systolic (mean difference: –2.8 mmHg, 95% CI –1.8 to 7.4; P=.23) and diastolic (mean difference: –3.6 mmHg, 95% CI –0.2 to 7.3; P=.07) blood pressure compared with active comparator participants. Most intervention participants (23/29, 79%) said they would recommend the DASH Cloud intervention to a friend or family member. However, only 34% (10/59) indicated that the feedback text messages helped them reach their diet goals.ConclusionsA digital health intervention to improve DASH adherence is feasible and produces moderately high engagement among women with elevated blood pressure. The intervention did not enhance DASH adherence over diet tracking alone but resulted in greater reductions in blood pressure. Larger studies are needed to determine how digital health interventions can improve population-level adherence to DASH.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT03215472; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT03215472

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Dietary Intervention Improves Blood Pressure and Vascular Health in Youth With Elevated Blood Pressure.

This randomized control trial assessed the post-intervention and 18-month follow-up effects of a 6-month dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH)-focused behavioral nutrition intervention, initiated in clinic with subsequent telephone and mail contact, on blood pressure (BP) and endothelial function in adolescents with elevated BP. Adolescents (n=159) 11 to 18 years of age with newly diagnosed elevated BP or stage 1 hypertension treated at a hospital-based clinic were randomized. DASH participants received a take-home manual plus 2 face-to-face counseling sessions at baseline and 3 months with a dietitian regarding the DASH diet, 6 monthly mailings, and 8 weekly and then 7 biweekly telephone calls focused on behavioral strategies to promote DASH adherence. Routine care participants received nutrition counseling with a dietitian consistent with pediatric guidelines established by the National High Blood Pressure Education Program. Outcomes, measured pre- and post-intervention and at 18-months follow-up, included change in BP, change in brachial artery flow-mediated dilation, and change in DASH score based on 3-day diet recalls. Adolescents in DASH versus routine care had a greater improvement in systolic BP (-2.7 mm Hg, P= 0.03, -0.3 z-score, P=0.03), flow-mediated dilation (2.5%, P=0.05), and DASH score (13.3 points, P<0.0001) from baseline to post-treatment and a greater improvement in flow-mediated dilation (3.1%, P=0.03) and DASH score (7.4 points, P=0.01) to 18 months. The DASH intervention proved more effective than routine care in initial systolic BP improvement and longer term improvement in endothelial function and diet quality in adolescents with elevated BP and hypertension. Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT00585832.

Confusion Regarding the DASH Diet and Sodium Restriction in Inner-city Clinic Patients: Association with Poor DASH Scores and Sodium Adherence (P04-111-19)

Abstract Objectives Adherence to the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is associated with slower progression of kidney disease and decreased cardiovascular risk. We evaluated the association between knowledge of the DASH diet, DASH scores and nutrient intake in an inner-City population. Methods A random sample of patients from CKD (37), medicine/diabetes (18) and transplant clinic (31) was studied using 24-hour food recall, with nutrient intake analyzed by ASA24 software used to calculate DASH score. Patients were asked to respond to the question “Do you know what the DASH diet is?” Results Mean age was 63.8 ± 14.1yrs; 50% (43) had diabetes; 85% (73) had hypertension. 45% (39) reported income &lt; $20 K/yr. 78% (67) stated that they were familiar with the DASH diet and defined it as decreased or “low” intake of sodium or salt (LoNa); 33% (28) were not familiar (NoAns). No patient was able to provide a correct explanation of the DASH diet as per the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Most common answers were “no salt” (26), “low salt” (38), 3 pts described the limit of sodium as 2gm (2) or &lt;80 mg (1). Several patients commented “nasty” or “tasteless”. Mean DASH scores were poor and did not differ between the two groups (LoNa 3.75 ± 0.88 vs NoAns 3.8 ± 0.8, P = NS), nor did intake of sodium (LoNa 2.51 ±0.96 g vs NoAns 2.59 ± 1.3 g, P = NS). There was no difference in creatinine (LoNa 2.0 ± 1.6 vs 1.79 ± 1.3 mg/dl, P = NS), BMI, blood pressure systolic or diastolic, income, education or marital status between the two groups. 92% (57/62) pts in the LoNa group answered yes to the question “Are you familiar with a low sodium diet” vs 1% (1/16) in the NoAns group, P &lt; 0.0001. Conclusions In our population of inner-City pts: 1. Understanding of the DASH diet was poor and equated with low or absent sodium intake with unclear understanding of actual amount. 2. DASH adherence was poor in all groups. 3. There was no difference in sodium intake between pts who stated that they knew about the DASH diet and those who did not. Neither group met the recommendations for &lt; 2gm/d intake. 4. Pts who answered they knew what a DASH diet was were more likely to report familiarity with low sodium diets. 5. Confusion regarding the DASH diet and sodium restriction is common. As the DASH eating pattern is a more comprehensive change in dietary habits, targeted education may be needed in this population to improve overall adherence. Funding Sources none.

The Effect of a Digital Behavioral Weight Loss Intervention on Adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) Dietary Pattern in Medically Vulnerable Primary Care Patients: Results from a Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundObesity treatment focuses primarily on reducing overall caloric intake with limited focus on improving diet quality. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) dietary pattern is effective in managing hypertension and other chronic conditions, yet it is not clear whether behavioral weight control interventions improve DASH adherence. We conducted a post hoc analysis of a behavioral weight loss intervention that did not emphasize diet quality and examined whether the intervention impacted DASH adherence in medically vulnerable community health center patients. MethodsParticipants (n=306) were enrolled in Track, a randomized controlled weight loss intervention for patients with elevated cardiovascular risk. The trial compared usual care to an intervention with weekly self-monitoring, tailored feedback on diet and exercise goals, and dietitian and provider counseling in community health centers. Dietary intake was measured using the Block Food Frequency Questionnaires collected at baseline and 12 months. DASH adherence was determined using previously validated scoring indices that assessed adherence based on recommended nutrient or food group targets. Total scores for both indices ranged from 0 to 9, with higher scores indicating greater DASH adherence. ResultsThe mean (and standard deviation [SD]) age of participants was 51.1 (SD=8.8) years and the mean body mass index was 35.9 (SD=3.9). Most were female (69%) and black (51%); 13% were Hispanic. Half (51%) had an annual income <$25,000 and 33% had both diabetes and hypertension. At baseline, the mean DASH nutrient score was 1.81 (SD=1.42) with 6% achieving at least a score of 4.5. Similar scores were seen for the DASH foods index. The intervention group saw significantly greater, albeit small, improvements in mean DASH nutrient score (intervention: 1.28 [SD=1.5] vs control: 0.20 [SD=1.3]; P<0.001), and there was no difference in DASH food score between study arms. There were no significant predictors of change in DASH score and no association between DASH adherence and changes in blood pressure. Within the intervention arm, improvements in DASH nutrient score were associated with greater weight loss (r=−0.28; P=0.003). ConclusionAlthough the intervention was not designed to increase adoption of DASH, the Track intervention produced significant weight loss and small improvements in DASH adherence. Despite these small improvements, overall adoption of DASH was poor among the medically vulnerable patients enrolled in Track. To further reduce chronic disease burden, weight loss interventions should include a focus on both caloric restriction and increasing diet quality.

Local fast-food environment, diet and blood pressure: the moderating role of mastery

PurposeTo examine the moderating role of mastery in the association of local fast-food restaurants (FFR) with diet quality and systolic blood pressure (SBP).MethodsWe used cross-sectional data from 1543 adults participating in wave six of the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (NESDA). Data were collected between 2013 and 2016. Diet quality was defined by adherence with the dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH) diet. Individuals reported on their food consumption through a food frequency questionnaire and SBP was measured. Density of FFR in 1600 m, 800 m and 400 m circular buffers around the home postal code was calculated using Geographic Information Systems. We assessed the association between density of FFR, diet and SBP using linear regression analyses, testing for moderation by mastery.ResultsMean age was 52 years and 32.2% of the sample were men. Exposure to FFR ranged from 0 to 35 FFR per km2. Density of FFR was not significantly associated with DASH adherence or SBP. Only one out of the six interaction terms was significant, suggesting that for individuals with lower levels of mastery, higher density of FFR in an 800-m buffer was negatively associated with DASH adherence, while for individuals with higher levels of mastery, this association was positive.ConclusionsExposure to FFR was not associated with diet quality and SBP, and we observed little evidence for moderation by level of mastery. This research question should be further explored in a large sample of healthy adults.

Adherence to Healthful Dietary Patterns Is Associated with Lower Risk of Hearing Loss in Women

Specific nutrients have been associated with hearing status, but associations between healthful dietary patterns and risk of hearing loss have not been prospectively evaluated. We sought to prospectively examine the relations between adherence to the Alternate Mediterranean diet (AMED), the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and the Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010 (AHEI-2010), and risk of hearing loss. We conducted a longitudinal cohort study (1991-2013) of 81,818 women in the Nurses' Health Study II, aged 27-44 y at baseline. We assessed diet every 4 y with the use of food frequency questionnaires and calculated AMED, DASH, and AHEI-2010 adherence scores. Baseline and updated information from validated biennial questionnaires was used in Cox proportional hazards regression models to examine independent associations between adherence scores and risk of self-reported moderate or worse hearing loss. During >1 million person-years of follow-up, 2306 cases of moderate or worse hearing loss were reported. Higher cumulative average AMED and DASH scores were significantly inversely associated with risk of hearing loss. For women with scores in the highest compared with the lowest quintile, the multivariable-adjusted relative risks (MVRRs) of hearing loss were 0.70 (95% CI: 0.60, 0.82) (P-trend <0.001) for AMED and 0.71 (95% CI: 0.61, 0.83) (P-trend <0.001) for DASH. Higher recent AHEI-2010 score was also associated with lower risk [MVRR=0.79 (95% CI: 0.69, 0.91); P-trend <0.001]. Among participants with additional hearing-related information (n=33,102), higher cumulative average adherence scores for all 3 dietary patterns were associated with lower risk; the MVRR was 0.63 (95% CI: 0.49, 0.81) for AMED, 0.64 (95% CI: 0.50, 0.83) for DASH, and 0.71 (95% CI: 0.56, 0.89) for AHEI-2010. Adherence to healthful dietary patterns is associated with lower risk of hearing loss in women. Consuming a healthy diet may be helpful in reducing the risk of acquired hearing loss.

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet, Cognitive Function, and Cognitive Decline in American Older Women

ObjectivesTo examine the association between long-term adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet with cognitive function and decline in older American women. DesignProspective cohort study. SettingThe Nurses' Health Study, a cohort of registered nurses residing in 11 US states. ParticipantsA total of 16,144 women from the Nurses' Health Study, aged ≥70 years, who underwent cognitive testing a total of 4 times by telephone from 1995 to 2001 (baseline), with multiple dietary assessments between 1984 and the first cognitive examination. DASH adherence for each individual was based on scoring of intakes of 9 nutrient or food components. MeasurementsLong-term DASH adherence was calculated as the average DASH adherence score from up to 5 repeated measures of diet. Primary outcomes were cognitive function calculated as the average scores of the 4 repeated measures, as well as cognitive change of the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status score and composite scores of global cognition and verbal memory. ResultsGreater adherence to long-term DASH score was associated with better average cognitive function, irrespective of apolipoprotein E ε4 allele status [multivariable-adjusted differences in mean z-scores between extreme DASH quintiles = 0.04 (95% confidence interval, CI 0.01–0.07), P trend = .009 for global cognition; 0.04 (95% CI 0.01–0.07), P trend = .002 for verbal memory and 0.16 (95% CI 0.03–0.29), and P trend = .03 for Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status, P interaction >0.24]. These differences were equivalent to being 1 year younger in age. Adherence to the DASH score was not associated with change in cognitive function over 6 years. ConclusionsOur findings in the largest cohort on dietary patterns and cognitive function to date indicate that long-term adherence to the DASH diet is important to maintain cognitive function at older ages.

Psychometric Validation of a Brief Self-report Measure of Diet Quality: The DASH-Q

ObjectiveThe Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is recommended for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular chronic diseases. This study describes the development, internal consistency, and validation (predictive and convergent) of a population-based, self-report measure (the DASH Quality [DASH-Q]) to assess adherence to the DASH diet among adults. DesignCross-sectional online surveys to evaluate the psychometric properties of the DASH-Q. ParticipantsUS adults consisting of a national sample (n = 407) and a Southern university sample (n = 405). Main Outcome MeasuresDiet quality scores. AnalysisItem and scale psychometric properties were examined using corrected item total correlations and principal component analysis. The authors validated the DASH-Q by examining associations with an existing self-report nutrition scale and other nutrition-related behaviors. ResultsThe DASH-Q yielded acceptable internal consistency (α = .77–.83) in both samples. The DASH-Q scores correlated moderately to strongly with all nutrition-related criteria (P < .01), suggesting evidence of predictive and convergent validity. Less than 15% of either sample reported high diet quality. Conclusions and ImplicationsThe DASH-Q had sufficient psychometric robustness for use as a population-based measure. The DASH-Q is recommended as an easily used measure of DASH adherence for populations that need to modify their diet to manage chronic illness.

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Diet and New and Recurrent Root Caries Events in Men.

To examine the effect of overall dietary quality on number of teeth with new or recurrent root caries events during follow-up (root caries increment). Prospective study with dental examinations approximately every 3 years over 20 years. Veterans Affairs Dental Longitudinal Study in greater Boston, Massachusetts, area. Men aged 47 to 90 (N = 533). A single calibrated examiner assessed root caries and restorations, calculus, probing pocket depth, and attachment loss on each tooth at each examination. The adjusted root caries increment (root-ADJCI) was computed from new and recurrent root caries events on teeth with recession of 2 mm or more. Dietary information was obtained from food frequency questionnaires. An adherence score was computed by comparing consumption frequency of 10 food groups (fruits, vegetables, total dairy, low-fat dairy, meat, total grains, high-fiber grains, legumes, fats, sweets) from the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet guidelines. Mean root-ADJCIs were compared according to DASH adherence score quartile using generalized linear negative binomial regression models, controlling for age, number of teeth at risk of root caries, time at risk of root caries, calculus, presence of removable denture, history of dental prophylaxis, body mass index, and smoking status. Men with DASH adherence scores in the highest quartile had a 30% lower mean root-ADJCI (1.86 teeth) than those in the lowest quartile (2.68 teeth) (P = .03). Root-ADJCI was lower with greater adherence to recommendations for vegetables and total grains and greater with greater sugar-sweetened carbonated beverage consumption. Root caries incidence rate did not vary significantly between quartiles. A higher-quality diet may reduce root caries risk in older men.

The DASH Diet, Cardiovascular Disease Risk and Obesity in the United Kingdom

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan lowers risk of stroke, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and reduces weight gain. Little is known about the extent to which United Kingdom (UK) diets are DASH adherent or whether the level of DASH adherence is associated with CVD risk scores or obesity. We used nationally-representative cross-sectional data for 2008-12 from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey. Diet was assessed by four-day food diary and adherence to DASH was assessed based on eight diet components characteristic of this pattern. Population-level CVD risk was determined using the 1991 Framingham score, based on nurse-elicited data. We characterised DASH adherence by sociodemographic factors and used survey-weighted logistic regression to test for associations between DASH adherence and CVD risk and obesity. DASH adherence was greater among women, older people, and people of higher socioeconomic status. We also found a significant association between DASH adherence and CVD risk and obesity. Relative to the lowest quintile of DASH adherence, the most DASH-adherent quintile had lower odds of being in a high CVD risk group (OR 0.26, 95CI 0.09-0.78) (see figure) and obesity defined by waist circumference (OR 0.31, 95CI 0.18-0.52) or body mass index (OR 0.34, 95CI 0.20-0.60). The application of DASH to a UK sample shows pronounced sociodemographic differences and significant inverse associations with CVD risk and obesity. The observed heterogeneity in DASH adherence and the association between DASH adherence and health outcomes suggests that there may be a role for DASH in UK public health nutrition research and policy interventions. UK Clinical Research Collaboration grant MR/K023187/1