Reduce your blood pressure and improve your health with this beginner's guide to the DASH diet.

Millions of people worldwide suffer from hypertension, or high blood pressure, and the DASH diet is a tried-and-tested programme designed to lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and combat other health issues, such as diabetes and excessive weight gain.

DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) is grounded in healthy eating principles and focuses on unprocessed foods. It is rich in fruit, vegetables, low-fat and non-fat dairy, lean protein, nuts and seeds, beans, heart-healthy fats and a limited amount of whole grains.