Macronutrients. Fiber, Cholesterol and Dietary Patterns

INTRODUCTION The available data strongly support the hypothesis that multiple dietary factors influence blood pressure (BP) and that modification of the diet can have powerful, beneficial effects. A persuasive body of evidence has documented that weight and dietary intakes of sodium, potassium, and alcohol influence BP. The objective of this chapter is to summarize evidence on other aspects of diet that might also affect BP, specifically macronutrients, fiber, cholesterol, and dietary patterns. In the process, the strengths and limitations of available evidence will be highlighted.