Effect of flaxseed supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review, and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#humans #blood-pressure #flax #randomized-controlled-trials-as-topic #hypertension

Effect of flaxseed supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review, and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Li et al., 2023 | Food Funct | Meta Analysis

Citation

Li Lingou, Li Hanzhang, ... Yang Mei. Effect of flaxseed supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review, and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Food Funct. 2023-Jan-23;14(2):675-690. doi:10.1039/d2fo02566c

Abstract

Many clinical trials have revealed that flaxseed supplementation might exert a potent antihypertensive influence, but the findings are inconsistent. In this regard, a meta-analysis was carried out to provide a more accurate estimate of the impact of flaxseed supplementation on blood pressure. We searched international databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar till July 2022. A random-effects model was used to calculate weighted mean differences (WMDs). Non-linear dose-response analysis and meta-regression were performed. Meta-analysis of 33 trials (comprising 43 treatment arms) with 2427 participants revealed significant reductions in both systolic (WMD: -3.19 mmHg; 95% CI: -4.15 to -2.24, p < 0.001; I2 = 92.5%, p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (WMD = -2.61 mmHg; 95% CI: -3.27, -1.94, p < 0.001; I2 = 94.1%, p < 0.001) following flaxseed supplementation. Greater effects on SBP and DBP were found in trials with an intervention duration of >20 weeks, ≥30 g day-1 of flaxseed, subjects with BMI 25-30 kg m-2, and in patients with hypertension. Supplementation with various flaxseed products significantly reduced SBP and DBP levels, confirming the hypothesis that flaxseed could be used as an effective supplement for blood pressure management, alongside routine medications.

Key Findings

Supplementation with various flaxseed products significantly reduced SBP and DBP levels, confirming the hypothesis that flaxseed could be used as an effective supplement for blood pressure management, alongside routine medications.

Outcomes Measured

  • blood pressure
  • systolic blood pressure
  • diastolic blood pressure

Population

Field Value
Population bmi 25
Sample Size 2427
Age Range See abstract
Condition hypertension

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Blood Pressure
  • Flax
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Hypertension
  • Dietary Supplements

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, Journal Article
  • Vertical: flaxseed

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09