For a patient with hypertension, which dietary recommendation is most appropriate?

The most appropriate dietary recommendation for a patient with hypertension is to reduce sodium intake. Sodium plays a significant role in regulating blood pressure; consuming high levels of sodium can lead to fluid retention, which increases blood volume and, in turn, raises blood pressure. Many health organizations, including the American Heart Association, advocate for reducing sodium intake as a key strategy in managing hypertension.

In contrast, increasing calcium intake can be beneficial for bone health and may have a modest impact on lowering blood pressure, but it is not as critical as sodium reduction in the specific context of hypertension management. Increasing sugar intake has no beneficial effect on hypertension and could contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues. Limiting fiber intake is not advisable, as fiber is an important component of a healthy diet, contributing to overall cardiovascular health and having a potential positive effect on blood pressure. Therefore, the focus on sodium reduction directly aligns with established guidelines for managing hypertension.