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Stress management and dietary counseling in hypertensive patients: a pilot study of additional effect

Alexia L Katsarou1, Marios M Vryonis1, Athanassios D Protogerou1

  • 11 Postgraduate Course Stress Management and Health Promotion, School of Medicine, University of Athens, Athens, Greece.

Primary Health Care Research & Development
|February 22, 2013
PubMed

Insights

A combined intervention of stress management and Mediterranean diet education significantly reduced blood pressure (BP) and perceived stress in hypertensive patients. This non-pharmacological approach shows promise as a complementary treatment for high blood pressure.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Preventive Medicine
  • Nutrition Science

Background:

  • Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality in Western societies, with hypertension as a primary reversible risk factor.
  • Dietary habits and psychosocial stress are significant contributors to hypertension development.
  • The study investigates non-pharmacological interventions for hypertension management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effect and feasibility of a combined intervention program.
  • The intervention focused on dietary education (Mediterranean diet) and stress management techniques.
  • The primary goal was to assess the impact on blood pressure control in hypertensive individuals.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized, controlled pilot study was conducted over eight weeks.
  • Participants received combined education on stress management and the Mediterranean diet.
  • Office blood pressure, dietary habits, and perceived stress were measured using validated questionnaires.

Main Results:

  • The intervention group showed significant reductions in office systolic and diastolic blood pressure and perceived stress.
  • Adherence to Mediterranean diet principles significantly increased in the intervention group.
  • No significant changes were observed in the control group, indicating the intervention's specific effect.

Conclusions:

  • Combined stress management and Mediterranean diet education demonstrate a beneficial effect on blood pressure reduction.
  • This non-pharmacological strategy may serve as an adjunct to drug therapy or for early-stage hypertension.
  • Further epidemiological studies are warranted to confirm the efficacy of these interventions.
Abstract

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