ABSTRACT
International experts recommend a series of nonphar-
macological measures on the basis of the evidence
currently available (Table 24.1). They consistently insist
on the importance of weight reduction, if overweight,
restriction of dietary salt intake, limitation of alcohol
consumption, and regular and dynamic exercise. A diet
that increases vegetables, fruit and low-fat or fat-free
dairy product consumption (therefore, rich in fiber, potas-
sium, calcium, and magnesium) is also part of the unani-
mously accepted recommendations. In this chapter, we
will review the evidence available supporting these
measures and other behavioral measures, such as
smoking cessation and relaxation, which may have an
impact on blood pressure control.
