DASH-Patterned Groceries and Effects on Blood Pressure: The GoFresh Randomized Clinical Trial

Top Things to Know

Providing medically tailored groceries aligned with DASH principles, coupled with counseling, can significantly lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol.

Health benefits disappeared after the program ended, emphasizing that FIM interventions must include strategies for ongoing access to healthy foods and nutrition support.

Reductions in sodium and saturated fat, rather than weight loss, were key drivers of improved blood pressure and lipid profiles, reinforcing the importance of nutrient-focused grocery prescriptions in clinical care.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The GoFresh randomized clinical trial evaluated whether home-delivered, DASH-patterned groceries combined with dietitian counseling could reduce blood pressure among Black adults living in urban communities with limited grocery access. Over 12 weeks, participants receiving DASH groceries experienced a mean systolic blood pressure reduction of −5.7 mmHg, compared to −2.3 mmHg in the self-directed shopping group, a significant difference of −3.4 mmHg. The DASH group also showed improvements in diastolic BP (−2.4 mmHg), LDL cholesterol (−8 mg/dL), and sodium intake, but no significant changes in BMI or hemoglobin A1C. Adherence was high, and participants reported strong satisfaction with the groceries and counseling. However, these benefits were not maintained after the intervention ended, highlighting the need for sustained support.