Study pinpoints ‘optimal’ omega-3 dose to lower blood pressure
Patients with hypertension and hyperlipidaemia may particularly benefit from the fatty acids, researchers say
About 3g of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may be the optimal daily dose to help lower blood pressure, according to a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.
The dose–response study of 71 clinical trials covering 5000 people found a J-shaped curve, suggesting that consuming larger amounts of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may benefit only patients at high risk from hypertension or hyperlipidaemia.
The Canadian and Chinese researchers found normotensive people who consumed 3g a day of the PUFAs — either in supplements or through their diet — reported an average blood pressure drop of about 2mmHg.
The drop was greater among those with hypertension, at an average 4.5mmHg.
