Which of the following are recommended lifestyle modifications for managing hypertension (HTN)? (Select All that Apply.)
Explanation & Rationale
A. Increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are central to the DASH-style dietary pattern (high potassium, fiber, antioxidants) which lowers blood pressure and improves cardiovascular risk. B. Limiting alcohol intake to moderate levels: Limiting alcohol reduces blood pressure and avoids interactions with medications; moderation is recommended as part of HTN management. C. Engaging in regular aerobic exercise: Regular aerobic activity (eg, ~150 min/wk moderate) lowers systolic/diastolic pressure and improves overall cardiovascular health. D. Taking over-the-counter herbal supplements: Many herbal supplements lack proven BP-lowering benefit and may interact with prescription antihypertensives or cause harm; they are not a recommended universal HTN strategy without provider supervision. E. Quitting smoking and avoiding exposure to secondhand smoke: Smoking cessation reduces cardiovascular and stroke risk and is an important modifiable risk factor even though quitting has less direct short-term effect on resting BP than diet/exercise.