A patient is diagnosed with borderline hypertension and states a desire to make lifestyle changes to avoid needing to take medication. The nurse advises:

The correct answer is D: Weight reduction and decreased sodium intake. Weight reduction helps lower blood pressure by reducing strain on the heart and blood vessels. Decreasing sodium intake is crucial as high sodium levels can lead to increased blood pressure. Changing from weight-bearing exercise to yoga (choice A) may not be as effective in lowering blood pressure. Decreased fluid intake and increased potassium intake (choice B) might not directly address the root cause of hypertension. Stress reduction and increased protein intake (choice C) may not have a direct impact on blood pressure compared to weight reduction and sodium intake.