Nobody even thought about looking for the effects of fish oil a few decades back. But this has changed all since we know that high blood pressure is one of the diseases that stems from an inflammatory condition in the lining of the arteries. Given that background it makes sense that Dr. Paige E. Miller and colleagues would have analyzed 70 randomized trials to see whether either fish oil extracts (with EPA and DHA) or placebo would be effective in reducing blood pressure.
Fish Oil Lowers Blood Pressure
When the total EPA and DHA amount was added that had been given to patients, it amounted to 3.8 grams on average (which is about 4 capsules of molecularly distilled fish oil per day). But they also looked at subgroups of patients and found that they had to exceed 2 Grams per day of EPA and DHA together in order to get any effect on lowering blood pressure.
What was the effect with those who took 3.8 Grams of Fish oil?
Their systolic blood pressure was lowered 4.51 mm mercury; the diastolic blood pressure was lowered 3.05 mm mercury. The placebo pills showed no effect (they did not lower blood pressure).
The recommendation would be to take at least 4 capsules of molecularly distilled fish oil, which is the more expensive type. It is available at health food stores, but large chains like COSTCO have products of similar quality at a lower cost. You will not only get help for lowering your blood pressure, you will reap benefits in terms of arthritis prevention and postponing hardening of the arteries as well as dementia.
By the way stay in touch with your family doctor to adjust your blood pressure medication, as you may need slightly less in dosage when blood pressure pills are combined with fish oil.
More information is available at Fat, Good And Bad Fatty Acids.
Reference: Based on Am J Hypertension, March 6, 2014
