Dose‐Response of Omega‐3 Fatty Acids for Lowering BP

A dose‐response meta‐analysis suggested that the optimal combined intake of omega‐3 fatty acids for blood pressure (BP) lowering is likely between 2 g/d and 3 g/d. Doses above 3 g/d may be associated with additional benefits in lowering BP among high risk groups for cardiovascular diseases. The analysis included 71 randomized controlled trials published before May 7, 2021, involving 4973 individuals with a combined docosahexaenoic acid+eicosapentaenoic acid dose of 2.8 g/d (interquartile range, 1.3 g/d to 3.6 g/d). A random‐effects 1‐stage cubic spline regression model was used to predict the average dose‐response association between daily omega‐3 fatty acid intake and changes in BP. A nonlinear J‐shaped dose‐response association was found overall or in most subgroups. The optimal intake for both systolic BP and diastolic BP reductions (mm Hg) were obtained by moderate doses between 2 g/d (systolic BP, −2.61; diastolic BP, −1.64) and 3 g/d (systolic BP, −2.61; diastolic BP, −1.80). Subgroup studies revealed stronger and approximately linear dose‐response relations among hypertensive, hyperlipidemic, and older populations. The findings provide robust evidence in the beneficial effect of omega‐3 fatty acids for reducing cardiovascular risks despite a mixed evidence base and the potential risks of increased atrial fibrillation and bleeding. In addition to the effect on BP, omega‐3 fatty acids have other effects on hyperlipidemia, inflammation, and thrombosis. Foods high in omega‐3 fatty acids include seafoods, nuts, seeds and plant oils. Source: https://www.ahajournals.org/