What is the DASH Diet Called? The Meaning Behind the Acronym

January 5, 2026 •

3 min read

Developed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) in the 1990s, the DASH diet has consistently ranked among the top dietary plans for heart health. So, what is the DASH diet called? The name is a descriptive acronym that reveals its core purpose: to create a proven dietary strategy to manage and reduce high blood pressure.

Quick Summary

The DASH diet stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. It is a healthy eating plan designed to lower blood pressure naturally through food choices rich in key minerals.

Key Points

Official Name: The DASH diet is officially called 'Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension'.
Core Purpose: It is designed to prevent and control high blood pressure.
Nutrient Focus: Emphasizes foods rich in potassium, calcium, magnesium, and fiber.
Two Versions: Offers standard (2,300 mg sodium/day) and lower-sodium (1,500 mg sodium/day) plans.
Research-Backed: Supported by extensive studies by the NHLBI.
Flexible Approach: A balanced eating style focusing on nutritional goals.

The Meaning Behind the DASH Acronym

To understand what is the DASH diet called, one must look directly at its official name: Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. This name is not just a label; it is a clear summary of the diet's scientific foundation and primary objective. The acronym DASH encapsulates the core principles and goals of this eating plan.

Decoding "Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension"

Each word in the name highlights a key aspect of the program:

Dietary: This emphasizes that the program is a comprehensive eating plan focusing on overall food patterns.
Approaches: This term indicates a flexible and balanced eating plan aimed at achieving nutritional goals.
To Stop: The primary goal is to prevent or manage high blood pressure (hypertension).
Hypertension: The medical term for high blood pressure, which is the main target of the diet.

Core Principles and Nutritional Goals

The DASH diet focuses on foods rich in nutrients like potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are known to help control blood pressure. It also emphasizes high fiber intake and limits saturated fat, cholesterol, and total fat. The plan encourages consuming a variety of whole foods while reducing processed items and added sugars.

Foods to Embrace on the DASH Diet

Vegetables: Rich in potassium, magnesium, and fiber, examples include leafy greens, broccoli, and sweet potatoes.
Fruits: Provide potassium, fiber, and antioxidants from choices like bananas, apples, and berries.
Whole Grains: Sources of fiber and energy, such as whole-wheat bread and brown rice.
Low-fat or Fat-free Dairy: Supply calcium and protein from milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Lean Meats, Poultry, and Fish: Protein sources should be lean.
Nuts, Seeds, and Legumes: Offer magnesium, protein, and fiber.

Foods to Limit or Avoid on the DASH Diet

Sweets and Added Sugars: Limit sugar-sweetened drinks and candies.
Saturated and Trans Fats: Minimize fatty meats and full-fat dairy.
Sodium: Reduce intake of high-sodium foods like processed items and fast food.

Standard vs. Low-Sodium DASH: What's the Difference?

The DASH diet offers two sodium levels to cater to individual needs:

Standard DASH Diet: Allows up to 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium per day.
Lower Sodium DASH Diet: Limits daily sodium intake to 1,500 mg for a potentially greater blood pressure reduction.

Comparing DASH with Other Popular Diets


Feature	DASH Diet	Mediterranean Diet
Primary Goal	Lower and manage high blood pressure.	Improve overall heart health.
Sodium Focus	Explicitly limits sodium (2,300mg or 1,500mg).	Focuses on whole foods, naturally lower in sodium.
Key Nutrients	Potassium, magnesium, calcium, fiber.	Heart-healthy fats, fiber, lean protein.
Dairy Consumption	Includes multiple daily servings of low-fat dairy.	Typically includes less dairy.
Flexibility	More structured with serving recommendations.	More flexible and adaptable.
Effectiveness for Hypertension	Proven to significantly lower blood pressure.	Generally effective, but DASH is more targeted.

The Scientific Foundation of the DASH Diet

The DASH diet's effectiveness is well-supported by scientific research. The initial study in 1997 showed significant blood pressure reduction, often within two weeks. Further research confirmed that reducing sodium intake could enhance these effects. This evidence base is a key reason for its recommendation by health organizations.

Conclusion: More Than a Name

The name "Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension" clearly defines the purpose of the DASH diet. It is a scientifically validated, adaptable eating plan designed to manage blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health through balanced nutrition and controlled sodium intake. The clarity of its name reflects its direct approach to a critical health issue, making it a valuable tool for those seeking a healthier lifestyle. The NHLBI provides comprehensive guides for those interested in adopting this plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

The DASH diet's full name is Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension.

No, while it was developed to combat hypertension, the DASH diet is a healthy eating plan recommended for the general public to promote heart health and reduce the risk of other chronic diseases.

The main foods to eat on the DASH diet include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Lean meat, fish, poultry, nuts, and legumes are also emphasized.

Yes, the DASH diet explicitly restricts sodium intake. There are two levels: a standard plan of 2,300 mg per day and a lower-sodium plan of 1,500 mg per day.

The DASH diet was not originally designed for weight loss, but it can help people lose weight, especially when combined with reduced calorie intake and physical activity. The focus is on nutritious, filling whole foods.

The DASH diet is often considered relatively easy to follow because it doesn't require special foods. It provides flexible daily and weekly nutritional goals that can be achieved with common grocery store items.

The key difference is the focus on sodium and dairy. The DASH diet explicitly limits sodium and includes low-fat dairy, while the Mediterranean diet, though naturally low in sodium, doesn't mandate a limit and includes less dairy.