What Is the DASH Diet? It was developed by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), a part of the National Institutes of Health. Even though the diet is meant to target blood pressure, it has also been shown to offer protection against osteoporosis, cancer, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Because it promotes healthy eating and snacking, the DASH diet may also help people lose weight. The overall goal of the diet is to lower sodium consumption in order to lower blood pressure. The DASH diet requires the ample consumption of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy. There can be limited consumption of fish and poultry, while red meat, sweets and fatty foods should be consumed sparingly.