ACE Health Coach Certification Practice Test

From which food group should individuals following the DASH eating plan consume the highest number of servings?

1. Low-fat or fat-free dairy foods

2. Vegetables

3. Nuts, seeds, legumes

4. Grains

The correct answer is: Grains

The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan emphasizes a high intake of whole grains, which are crucial for providing dietary fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals that support overall health. Within the DASH guidelines, grains should form the foundation of daily food intake, typically recommended at about six to eight servings per day, depending on individual caloric needs. Whole grains help to manage blood pressure levels and contribute to heart health, which is a primary goal of the DASH diet. They also provide complex carbohydrates, energy, and a variety of nutrients that contribute to overall well-being. The plan encourages individuals to choose whole grain options such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole-grain bread, which further enhance the nutritional quality of the diet. While other food groups like vegetables, fruits, and low-fat dairy are also important and recommended in significant amounts, the primary focus of the DASH eating plan is on maximizing grain intake to support cardiovascular health, making this food group the one individuals following the plan should consume the highest number of servings from.