The best proven nonpharmacologic interventions for prevention and treatment of hypertension include the following: Increased physical activity with a structured exercise program Weight loss if overweight or obese Healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, with reduced saturated and total fat content Reduced dietary sodium to < 1500 mg / day (< 3.75 g sodium chloride) optimally, but at least a 1000 mg / day reduction Enhanced dietary potassium intake, unless contraindicated due to chronic kidney disease or use of medications that reduce potassium excretion Moderation in alcohol intake in those who drink alcohol to ≤ 2 drinks daily for men and ≤ 1 drink daily for women (one drink is about 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1.5 oz distilled spirits) Smoking cessation Dietary modifications can also help control diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia.