From the Guidelines
Flaxseed consumption is not recommended for secondary prevention of coronary artery disease (CAD) as there is insufficient evidence to support its use in reducing the risk of acute CVD events in patients with chronic coronary disease. According to the 2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA guideline for the management of patients with chronic coronary disease 1, nonprescription nutrition dietary supplements, including flaxseed, have insufficient evidence to support their use in reducing the risk of acute CVD events in patients with CAD.
Key Considerations
- The guideline emphasizes the importance of healthy dietary choices, including a higher intake of whole grains and fiber, and lower intake of saturated fat, sodium, refined carbohydrates, and sweetened beverages, in reducing the risk of acute CVD events 1.
- A Mediterranean-type dietary plan with higher intake of healthy plant-based foods and lean protein, and lower quantities of saturated fat, can help reduce cardiovascular risk factors 1.
- Higher dietary fiber intake is associated with improvement in CVD risk factors, including lower blood pressure, improved insulin sensitivity, and support of weight loss goals 1.
Recommendations
- Patients with CAD should focus on making healthy dietary changes, such as increasing whole grain and fiber intake, and reducing saturated fat and sodium consumption, rather than relying on supplements like flaxseed.
- It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you are taking medications or have underlying health conditions.
From the Research
Flaxseed Consumption and Secondary Prevention of CAD
- The relationship between flaxseed consumption and secondary prevention of coronary artery disease (CAD) is supported by several studies 2, 3.
- Flaxseed is a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid that has been suggested to have a positive impact on cardiovascular disease (CVD) 2.
- A study found that dietary flaxseed supplementation reduced the incidence of arrhythmias and resulted in smaller infarct size, less left ventricle dilation, and decreased myocardial fibrosis and tumor necrosis factor-α levels compared to the control group 3.
- Secondary prevention of CAD involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, including changes in nutrition, body weight, and physical activity, as well as drug treatment-based prevention strategies 4, 5, 6.
- While there is evidence to support the use of flaxseed in the secondary prevention of CAD, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and to determine the optimal dosage and duration of treatment.
Current State of Secondary Prevention of CAD
- Secondary prevention of CAD is a critical aspect of cardiovascular care, and its implementation in clinical practice is essential for reducing the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events 4, 5, 6.
- A study found that the implementation of guidelines for secondary prevention in everyday clinical practice was suboptimal, with significant potential for further reduction of cardiovascular risk in CAD patients 6.
- The study also found that increasing patient participation rates in rehabilitation/secondary prevention programs may improve the implementation of secondary prevention 6.
Benefits of Flaxseed Consumption
- Flaxseed consumption has been associated with several cardiovascular benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved lipid profiles, and decreased blood pressure 2, 3.
- The anti-arrhythmic effects of flaxseed supplementation have also been demonstrated, with a significant reduction in the incidence of arrhythmias compared to the control group 3.