Ask brain matters: “why should I change my diet?”

“Why should I change my diet if my medications are keeping my blood pressure and blood sugar in check?”

This is a question we get a lot. Why should I change my lifestyle when I can just pop a pill? We asked Heidi Wulzen, R.D. to tell us.

Medications work best when paired with healthy eating.  While medications help control blood pressure or blood sugar, they don’t replace the broader health benefits of eating well.

Take blood pressure: medication lowers pressure in your blood vessels, but it doesn’t erase the effects of a diet high in sodium and low in fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Healthy eating supports your heart, can help medication work better, and may even reduce the dose some people need. (Never stop or change medication without talking to your healthcare provider.)

The same is true for diabetes. Medication lowers blood sugar, but healthy eating helps prevent large spikes and reduces risk of complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, and blood vessels.

Healthy eating also supports brain health — diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats are linked to better memory and a lower risk of cognitive decline with age.

Think of medication as managing the condition, while healthy eating supports your body’s long-term health. Together, they’re often more effective than either one alone.

Knowing what to do and doing it are different things. Consider what may motivate you — grandchildren, travel, independence — then your potential barriers: cost, cooking skills, busy schedules, food preferences. Understanding both helps you find solutions that fit your life.

Lasting change doesn’t happen overnight. Focus on small, consistent improvements — add rather than only avoid. Pizza night? Add a salad. Creamy dressing? Try vinaigrette. Small changes, repeated over time can add up to real gains.

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Heidi Wulzen is a Registered Dietitian based in Kona. She can be reached at heidi@heritagehealthhi.com.