The effect of fish oil on blood pressure in mild hypertensive subjects: a randomized crossover trial.
We conducted a double-blind, crossover trial with 18 healthy, untreated mildly hypertensive subjects to test the effect on blood pressure of 6 or 12 g fish oil/d (50% n-3 fatty acids) as compared with an olive oil placebo. Blood pressure was measured every 6 wk in the clinic and three times daily by subjects using a semiautomated device in their homes. Compliance was determined biochemically. No significant changes in home or clinic blood pressure measurements were noted for either dose after 6 or 12 wk of treatment. Clinic blood pressure after 12 g fish oil/d was slightly lower than after placebo treatment by -0.8/-0.4 mm Hg [95% CI: systolic blood pressure (-4.4, +2.8); diastolic blood pressure (-3.2, +2.4)]. Blood pressure changes were not correlated with compliance, baseline dietary fish consumption, or blood pressure. Moderate doses of fish oil did not have a substantial effect on blood pressure. We conclude that fish oil is not a practical treatment for mild hypertension.
Morris
M C
MC
Center for Research on Health and Aging, Chicago, IL 60612.
Taylor
J O
JO
Stampfer
M J
MJ
Rosner
B
B
Sacks
F M
FM
D001794:Blood Pressure / Q000187:drug effects; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D005395:Fish Oils / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D006973:Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance
D015525:Fatty Acids, Omega-3; D005395:Fish Oils