Can a high intake of omega-3 fatty acids help manage blood pressure?

According to a new study, the answer is yes – it can help a little. But a little goes a long way when it comes to blood pressure.

Researchers a Chicago’s Northwestern University compared blood pressure readings to dietary habits in more then 4,600 men and women over the age of 40. When results were adjusted to account for 17 different variables that affect blood pressure (such as weight, exercise habits, age, etc.), the Northwestern team found that subjects whose diets supplied a good intake of omega-3 fatty acids tended to have slightly lower blood pressure compared to subjects with low omega-3 intake.

That may not sound impressive, but it is to Dr. Hirotsugu Ueshima of Shiga University of Medical Science in Otsu, Japan.

Dr. Hirotsugu told Reuters that every millimeter counts when it comes to blood pressure. He noted that when increased omega-3 intake is added to weight loss, an avoidance of heavy drinking, and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, then a small improvement could help make a big difference.

Source:

“Omega-3 Fatty Acids Can Lower Blood Pressure” Reuters, 6/5/07, reuters.com