If you have high blood pressure, you might use medication and lifestyle modification to treat or manage your condition. One form of lifestyle modification that is used is nutritional supplementation, which includes omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseeds and flaxseed oil. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation and might help lower risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, arthritis and heart disease.
Significance
Your blood pressure is a significant measure of the health of your cardiovascular system. MedlinePlus states that blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It states that your systolic pressure is the amount of pressure when your heart is pumping and it is represented by the top number in a blood pressure reading. The bottom number is the diastolic pressure, which identifies the amount of force on your arteries between beats. A normal blood pressure reading is written as 120/80. If your blood pressure increases to over 140/90, you have high blood pressure.
Flaxseed
According to MedlinePlus, flaxseed is a good source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. It also states that flaxseed is commonly used for disorders of the heart and blood vessels, including high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease and high blood pressure.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that your body is not able to make on its own. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. Flaxseeds are a plant form of omega-3 fatty acids and can be added to your diet in the form of seeds or in flaxseed oil.
Considerations
The most effective way to lower your blood pressure is to lower your body weight through a healthy diet and adequate exercise. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises that although flaxseed and omega-3 fatty acids are safe, there always is a potential for side effects and interactions with medications. Take dietary supplements only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider.
Prevention/Solution
The Harvard School of Public Health recommends a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and healthy oils to help with high blood pressure and other chronic illness. This diet should limit saturated fat, trans fat, processed foods and foods that are high in sodium content. It also mentions that any healthy diet should be based on daily exercise.
