New Review: Importance of Plant-Based ALA for Heart Health

A new research review published in the journal Advances in Nutrition in March showed positive effects of plant-based, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) for heart health.

In a comprehensive review of the scientific literature, researchers from universities and institutions in the U.S. and Spain found that increasing ALA in the diet, which is found in plant-based foods like chia, walnuts, and flaxseeds, was associated with a 10% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 20% reduced risk of fatal coronary heart disease.

The researchers considered and analysed quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) as well as observational studies that evaluated the consumption levels and effects of ALA on heart disease risk factors like inflammation, blood pressure, overall risk and risk of death from heart disease.

They reported that research does show beneficial effects of plant-based ALA on decreasing atherogenic lipids and lipoproteins (including total cholesterol, LDL-C, and triglycerides), on reducing blood pressure, as well as decreasing markers of inflammation.¹ Download the full study here.

Food sources high in ALA should be included as part of a heart-healthy dietary pattern. As the evidence supports and more research evolves in the area of heart health, inflammation, cognitive health, and other areas, we already know that ALA is an essential fat and continue to learn its many potential health-promoting and therapeutic properties particularly when it comes to cardiovascular health.

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_References:

_{(1) Impact of α-Linolenic Acid, the Vegetable ω-3 Fatty Acid, on Cardiovascular Disease and Cognition: Impact of α-Linolenic Acid, the Vegetable ω-3 Fatty Acid, on Cardiovascular Disease and Cognition | Advances in Nutrition | Oxford Academic (oup.com)}