Question

Mrs. Gupta, 55 years old, is the wife of a shopkeeper. Her blood pressure is 150/95 mm of Hg. She has been advised by the doctor to reduce weight and take a salt-free diet. Plan a sample menu for her.

Hint:

A low-sodium, balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports blood pressure control and weight reduction.

Answer 1

Mrs. Gupta is a 55-year-old woman with hypertension (blood pressure 150/95 mm Hg) and advised to reduce weight and follow a salt-free (low sodium) diet. The dietary plan should focus on:

• Reducing sodium intake: Avoid added salt, processed and packaged foods high in sodium.
• Weight reduction: Balanced calorie intake with portion control and inclusion of fiber-rich foods to increase satiety.
• Rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium: To help control blood pressure.
• Low in saturated fats and cholesterol: To reduce cardiovascular risks.

Sample Salt-Free Diet Menu for Mrs. Gupta: \begin{tabular}{|p{4cm}|p{10cm}|} \hline Meal & Menu Items
\hline Early Morning & Warm water with lemon (no sugar or salt)
\hline Breakfast & 1 small bowl of oats porridge made with skimmed milk and fresh fruits (apple/banana) \newline 1 cup green tea (without sugar)
\hline Mid-Morning Snack & 1 small bowl of mixed fresh fruits (papaya, watermelon) or a handful of unsalted nuts (almonds, walnuts)
\hline Lunch & 1 medium bowl of brown rice or whole wheat chapati (without salt) \newline 1 bowl of mixed vegetable curry (using minimal oil and no added salt) \newline 1 bowl of dal (lentils) cooked without salt \newline Fresh salad (cucumber, carrots, tomatoes) with lemon dressing
\hline Evening Snack & Roasted chana or unsalted popcorn \newline Herbal tea or lemon water (without sugar)
\hline Dinner & 2 chapatis made from whole wheat \newline Steamed vegetables (broccoli, beans, carrots) \newline 1 bowl of low-fat curd or buttermilk (unsalted)
\hline Bedtime & Warm skimmed milk (no sugar)
\hline \end{tabular} Additional Dietary Recommendations:

• Avoid processed and packaged foods (chips, pickles, salted nuts).
• Use herbs and spices like garlic, ginger, turmeric, coriander, and lemon juice for flavor instead of salt.
• Maintain adequate hydration with water and herbal teas.
• Incorporate regular physical activity such as walking for at least 30 minutes daily.
• Monitor weight regularly and avoid high-calorie snacks and sweets.