Role of flaxseeds in lowering high blood pressure

2013-10-30 09:18:51

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a well recognized risk factor for the development of heart disease, stroke, eye disease, or other circulatory problems. Hypertension is defined as a blood pressure equal to or above 140/90 on two separate readings. Hypertension is usually treated with one or more medications belonging to the class of: diuretics, beta blockers, or angiotensin receptor antagonists. High blood pressure increases the risk of developing peripheral vascular disease, a condition that limits blood flow to the extremities, especially among patients with diabetes, or smokers. Peripheral vascular disease leads to the development of skin ulcers or purplish discoloration, as well as pain, weakness, and muscle cramps.

Flaxseed, also known as linseed, contains omega-3 fatty acids, hormone-modulating compounds called lignans, and fiber. Together, these components are thought to provide benefits to patients with cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of daily ingestion of flaxseed on blood pressure in patients with peripheral vascular disease and high blood pressure. A total of 110 patients were randomized to receive a diet containing 30g of ground flaxseed or placebo each day for 6 months. As expected, blood levels of the omega-3 fatty acid α-linolenic acid and lignans increased 2- to 50-fold in the flaxseed-fed group, but did not increase significantly in the placebo group. There was no change in body weight. However, the patients who consumed flaxseed had an approximate 10 point reduction in their systolic blood pressure (the top number in 120/80 for instance), and a 7 point reduction in their diastolic blood pressure (bottom number), compared to patients who got placebo. This study suggests that consumption of 30g ground flaxseed can have an important blood pressure lowering effect.