Effects of the DASH Diet and Lifestyle Modification on Blood Pressure in Adults With Prehypertension

This pilot randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet and lifestyle modification on blood pressure in adults with prehypertension. The study was conducted among adults aged 20-64 years who were diagnosed with prehypertension based on one-week blood pressure monitoring. A total of 32 participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: verbal lifestyle modification advice, DASH diet, or DASH diet combined with lifestyle modification. Participants were followed for 2 months. Blood pressure measurements were repeated at the end of the first and second months. Dietary intake, anthropometric measurements, body composition, physical activity records, and routine biochemical parameters were also assessed during the study.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 20 to 64 years * Diagnosis of prehypertension based on one-week blood pressure monitoring * Systolic blood pressure between 120 and 139 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure between 80 and 89 mmHg * Willingness to participate in the study voluntarily * Provision of written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of kidney disease * Pregnancy * Lactation * Diagnosis of cancer * Use of vitamin or mineral supplements * Performing more than 150 minutes of physical activity per week