High blood pressure is dubbed the "silent killer" because it most often has no signs or symptoms. It puts extra stress on the arteries and heart, and if not controlled over time, it can lead to heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke.

Clinical studies have shown that the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet (DASH) can lower blood pressure significantly. Low in red meat, sugar, fat, and cholesterol, the DASH diet is rich in fruit, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, fish, poultry, and low-fat dairy products, which results in a diet high in calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

Providing a robust assortment of nutrients, watermelon is a component of the DASH diet, which has been shown to lower blood pressure more than sodium restriction alone.

Along with standard medical intervention, it is a good idea for anyone with high blood pressure to exercise, moderate alcohol intake, avoid tobacco and to adhere to a heart healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables.

To learn more about the DASH diet, please explore the links below:

• The DASH Diet Action Plan: http://dashdiet.org/dash_diet_book.htm
  The lifesytle plan to lower blood pressure, cholesterol and weight.
• The DASH Diet Eating Plan: http://dashdiet.org/
• Your guide to lowering blood pressure with DASH: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/hbp/dash/new_dash.pdf