Which of the following dietary recommendations is suggested for reducing cardiovascular risk?

The DASH diet, which stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension, is specifically designed to promote heart health and lower blood pressure, which is an essential factor in reducing cardiovascular risk. This dietary pattern emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products while encouraging reduced intake of saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium. Research has demonstrated that following the DASH diet not only helps with hypertension but also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease overall.

In contrast, high carbohydrate intake, especially if it includes processed and simple carbohydrates, may not provide the same heart-healthy benefits and can lead to issues like insulin resistance and weight gain. A high saturated fat diet can raise cholesterol levels, which is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Lastly, excessive alcohol consumption is known to have adverse effects on cardiovascular health, including high blood pressure and the potential for heart rhythm problems. Thus, the DASH diet stands out as the most beneficial dietary approach for mitigating cardiovascular risk among the options provided.