Flaxseed Lowers Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Subjects: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

• Published in: Clinical nutrition research 2024-10, Vol.13 (4), p.295-306
• Main Authors: Fazeli Moghadam, Ezatollah, Khaghani, Leili, Shekarchizadeh-Esfahani, Parivash
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Review
• ISSN: 2287-3732; 2287-3740
• DOI: 10.7762/cnr.2024.13.4.295

This systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of flaxseed supplementation on blood pressure (BP) in patients with hypertension based on the data from randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Three databases (PubMed [MEDLINE], Scopus, and ISI Web of Science) were searched from inception up to August 10, 2024. Relevant studies meeting our eligibility criteria were obtained. A random-effects model was used to estimate pooled weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The methodological quality of individual studies was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool. A total of 5 studies were included and analyzed using STATA software version 12. The results show that there is a significant decrease in systolic BP (WMD, -8.64 mmHg; 95% CI, -15.41 to -1.87; p ≤ 0.001) and diastolic BP (WMD, -4.87 mmHg; 95% CI, -8.37 to -1.37; p = 0.006) of patients with hypertension as compared to control groups. This study supported that flaxseed supplementation had favorable effects on BP control in hypertensive patients. It may be a promising adjuvant therapy for patients with hypertension.