Salt restriction in hypertensive patients. Comparison of advice, education, and group management

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Abstract
The best of 3 methods of treating hypertensive outpatients was studied in order to minimize dietary Na levels and thereby decrease the need for antihypertensive drugs. Outpatients (48) with hypertension were randomly assigned to 3 treatment programs: advice; an intensive educational program; and small-group management plus feedback. This last program had a problem-solving format in which patients shared ideas and provided mutual support for dietary change. Only these group management patients were told the results of their Na determinations. In a 1-yr study, group management plus the feedback to patients of information on the Na content of their urine was more effective in decreasing dietary Na intake than advice or an intensive educational effort.