Therapy
Flaxseed supplementation modestly lowers Lp(a), a meta-analysis of 6 randomised trials (Altern Ther Health Med 2021)
Original title: Flaxseed Supplementation Reduces Plasma Lipoprotein(a) Levels: A Meta-Analysis
This meta-analysis searched PubMed-Medline, Scopus, Embase and Google Scholar for randomised controlled trials of flaxseed on plasma Lp(a), screening 48 trials and including 6 that were eligible. Flaxseed supplementation was associated with a significant decrease in Lp(a) (standardised mean difference -0.22, 95% CI -0.41 to -0.04, P=.017). The authors suggest flaxseed-containing products could have clinical value for patients with high residual cardiovascular risk despite intensive statin therapy, those with hyperlipoproteinaemia(a), or those preferring natural remedies within a healthy lifestyle, while calling for further trials to confirm the role of flaxseed in lowering Lp(a).
Original abstract
Context: Elevated levels of lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] are an independent risk factor for premature cardiovascular disease (CVD). Flaxseed (Linum usitiatissimum L.) is a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid, phytoestrogens, and lignans and has been shown to improve several cardiovascular risk factors, although the overall effect on Lp(a) is unknown.
Objective: The study intended to assess the impact of flaxseed on plasma Lp(a) levels through a meta-analysis of the results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
Design: PubMed-Medline, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar databases were searched using the following search terms in titles and abstracts: flaxseed OR Linum usitatissimum OR lignin OR linseed AND lipoprotein(a) OR lipoprotein (a) OR Lp(a) OR Lp (a).
Results: Of the 48 RCTs, 6 were eligible for inclusion, and the results suggested a significant decrease in plasma Lp(a) levels-standardized mean difference: -0.22, 95% confidence interval: -0.41 to -0.04, P = .017-following supplementation with flaxseed-containing products.
Conclusions: This finding highlights the potential clinical significance of flaxseed supplementation for patients who are at risk of a high residual CVD despite intensive statin therapy, patients with hyperliporoteinemia(a), and patients who prefer natural remedies for CVD prevention in the context of a healthy lifestyle. Further RCTs are needed to establish the role of flaxseed-containing products on lowering Lp(a).
Summary written by lp-a.org from the published abstract; figures as published. Page updated 18 August 2026. Methods.