Does flaxseed reduce cardiovascular disease risk?

Flaxseed has many biologically active compounds that could improve cardiovascular disease (CVD) and reduce the risk of developing CVD.

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) has anti-inflammatory effects, and several studies have found that flaxseed supplementation can reduce levels of markers of inflammation like C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α).^{[1][2][3][4][5]} Lignans have antioxidant effects and have been observed to increase total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and reduce malondialdehyde (MDA).^[6][1]

The high fiber content of flaxseed can reduce cholesterol levels and may improve blood glucose levels.^{[7][8][9][10][11][12]} Flaxseed might also decrease lipoprotein(a) levels.^[13] Flaxseed supplementation has also been shown to lower blood pressure.^[14][15] Since these are all risk factors for CVD, flaxseed supplementation could reduce the risk of CVD.^[16]