The DASH eating plan was not designed to promote weight loss. But it is rich in low-calorie foods
such as fruits and vegetables. You can make it lower in calories by replacing high-calorie foods
with more fruits and vegetables—and that also will make it easier for you to reach your DASH
eating plan goals. Here are some examples:
To increase fruits:
• Eat a medium apple instead of four shortbread cookies. You’ll save 80 calories.
• Eat 1/4 cup of dried apricots instead of a 2-ounce bag of pork rinds. You’ll save 230 calories.
To increase vegetables:
• Have a hamburger that’s 3 ounces instead of 6 ounces. Add a 1/2 cup serving of carrots and
a 1/2 cup serving of spinach. You’ll save more than 200 calories.
• Instead of 5 ounces of chicken, have a stir fry with 2 ounces of chicken and 1 1/2 cups of raw
vegetables. Use a small amount of vegetable oil. You’ll save 50 calories.
To increase lowfat or fat free dairy products:
• Have a 1/2 cup serving of lowfat frozen yogurt instead of a 1 1/2-ounce milk chocolate bar. You’ll
save about 110 calories.