A diet well-known for lowering blood pressure can also help older patients lose fat without sacrificing muscle, according to new research.

In a small study involving 36 older obese adults, researchers found that a 12-week program of controlled-feeding that included lean red meat three times a day not only resulted in significant weight loss and loss of body fat but also preserved muscle strength and function – an important determinant of good health.

The DASH diet – Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension – has been proven to improve heart health, maintain cognitive function and reduce metabolic diseases such as diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.