Blood-pressure changes seen in DASH trials
In the original DASH trials, the eating pattern lowered systolic blood pressure by roughly 8 to 14 mmHg and diastolic by about 3 to 6 mmHg in people with elevated readings, with larger effects when sodium was also reduced. The blood-pressure response tends to be greatest in those who start higher and is more modest in people already near normal.
These reductions are clinically meaningful: sustained drops of this size are associated with lower long-term cardiovascular risk, though DASH is one input among many, including medication and overall lifestyle.
Lipids, weight, and the limits of the effect
DASH also tends to lower LDL cholesterol modestly and can support weight loss when total calories are controlled, since the pattern is high in fiber and low in energy-dense processed foods on its own. Benefits depend on adherence and on actually hitting the sodium and potassium profile.
This is general educational information, not medical advice. People with hypertension or kidney disease should manage their diet and any medication changes with a qualified professional.