Cod liver oil may be a helpful supplement for those seeking to maintain blood pressure within a safe range, as well as those seeking to lower their blood pressure considerably. Cod liver oil contains omega-3 fatty acids; these healthy fats have recognized value as blood-thinning agents that can help keep blood pressure at a manageable level. Cod liver oil also contains high levels of vitamin D, which may help lower blood pressure. Speak to your health care provider about cod liver oil for blood pressure.
Thromboxane A2
Thromboxane A2 is a type of compound involved in blood chemistry. Thromboxane A2 stimulates the production of new blood cells and encourages the blood cells to gather together and stick. Thromboxane A2 tends to increase blood pressure and often causes blood clots.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Cod liver oil is an excellent source of the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, and docosahexaenoic acid, better known as DHA. These fatty acids have demonstrated the ability to lower thromboxane A2 production, effectively decreasing blood pressure. A study conducted by Norwegian researchers and published in the journal "Lipids" in April 1998 examined 266 healthy subjects over a 12-week period and found that the EPA and DHA in cod liver oil significantly lowered the thromboxane levels in their blood.
Vitamin D
Cod liver oil is also an excellent source of vitamin D. One tablespoon of cod liver oil provides 34 mcg of vitamin D, which represents 338 percent of the recommended daily intake. According to MayoClinic.com, vitamin D may protect against high blood pressure. A Swedish study published in the January 1989 "American Journal of Hypertension" monitored 39 subjects with high blood pressure over a four-month period and found that vitamin D supplementation reduced their blood pressure.
Arterial Health
High blood pressure can often manifest with no known cause; it can also occur due to factors that are out of your control such as age and heredity. However, in certain cases high blood pressure occurs due to lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, excessive sodium, lack of physical activity and excessive alcohol intake. Regular exercise is a key factor in keeping your blood pressure within a moderate range. Seek medical clearance before you use cod liver oil as a supplement to manage blood pressure.
References
- eMedTV; Benefits of Cod Liver Oil; Kristi Monson, Pharm.D., et al.; January 2009
- "Lipids"; Effects of Dietary Marine Oils and Olive Oil on Fatty Acid Composition, Platelet Membrane Fluidity, Platelet Responses, and Serum Lipids in Healthy Humans; E. Vognild, et al.; April 1998
- MayoClinic.com; Vitamin D; April 2011
- "American Journal of Hypertension"; Reduction of Blood Pressure During Long-term Treatment With Active Vitamin D (Alphacalcidol) Is Dependent on Plasma Renin Activity and Calcium Status. A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study; L. Lind, et al.; January 1989
Member Comments