The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet encourages the consumption of more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. The diet also calls for lean meat, fish, poultry, nuts and beans as different sources of protein and advises reduction of salt, sugar, and fats in general. The amount of salt in a day was 3,200 mg maximum from all sources. Sugar was limited to no more than three teaspoons only. Alcohol consumption is limited to no more than two beverages and caffeinated drinks such as coffee and colas are restricted to a total of three beverages per day.