Hypertension or high blood pressure afflicts one in four Americans and is the leading cause of heart disease and stroke.  Many studies suggest that fat free or lowfat milk, as part of a lowfat diet, may help reduce the risk of hypertension.  Research shows that a lowfat eating plan called "DASH" (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), which includes three servings of lowfat dairy foods and 8 to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables, may help lower blood pressure as effectively as some medications.

Sacks FM, et al. A clinical trial of the effects on blood pressure of reduced dietary sodium and the DASH dietary pattern (the DASH Sodium Trial). New England Journal of Medicine. 2001; 344:3-10