Consumption of Fish Oil Providing Amounts of Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic Acid That Can Be Obtained from the Diet Reduces Blood Pressure in Adults with Systolic Hypertension: A Retrospective Analysis
Minihane AM, Armah CK, Miles EA, Madden JM, Clark AB, Caslake MJ, Packard CJ, Kofler BM, Lietz G, Curtis PJ, Mathers JC, Williams CM, Calder PC · The Journal of Nutrition · 2016 March
DOI 10.3945/jn.115.220475
Objective
To examine the impact of recommended eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) + docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intakes achievable through diet on systolic and diastolic BPs and microvascular function in adults in the United Kingdom.
Conclusions
These findings indicate that in adults with isolated systolic hypertension, daily doses of EPA+DHA as low as 0.7 g show clinically meaningful BP reductions, which, at a population level, could be associated with lower cardiovascular disease risk.
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Insights
Dietary omega-3 intake shows promise in lowering systolic blood pressure.
A study involving 312 participants investigated the effects of achievable dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), on blood pressure and vascular function. Participants were divided into groups receiving different doses of EPA+DHA for 8 weeks. Overall, there were no significant effects observed. However, in individuals with isolated systolic hypertension (SHT), a clinically meaningful reduction in systolic blood pressure (5 mm Hg) was noted with a low dose of EPA+DHA (0.7 g). The study suggests that even modest omega-3 intake may have potential benefits in reducing cardiovascular risk for individuals with SHT. Further research is recommended for conclusive results.
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