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Review
. 2023 Sep 20;24(18):14319.
doi: 10.3390/ijms241814319.

Alpha-Linolenic Acid and Cardiovascular Events: A Narrative Review

Camilla Bertoni  1 , Martina Abodi  1 , Veronica D'Oria  2 , Gregorio P Milani  2   3 , Carlo Agostoni  2   3 , Alessandra Mazzocchi  3
Affiliations
Review

Alpha-Linolenic Acid and Cardiovascular Events: A Narrative Review

Camilla Bertoni et al. Int J Mol Sci. .

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent the leading cause of global mortality with 1.7 million deaths a year. One of the alternative systems to drug therapy to minimize the risk of CVDs is represented by alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential fatty acid of the omega-3 series, known for its cholesterol-lowering effect. The main purpose of this review is to analyze the effects of ALA and investigate the relevant omega-6/omega-3 ratio in order to maintain functionally beneficial effects. Concerning the lipid-lowering preventive effects, ALA may favorably affect the values of LDL-C and triglycerides in both adult and pediatric populations. Furthermore, ALA has shown protective effects against hypertension, contributing to balancing blood pressure through customary diet. According to the 2009 EFSA statement, dietary ALA may contribute to reducing the risk of CVDs, thanks to anti-hypertensive, anti-atherosclerotic and cardioprotective effects.

Keywords: LDL-cholesterol; TC-cholesterol; alpha-linolenic acid; cardioprotective effect; cardiovascular events; heart disorders; hempseed oil; linoleic acid.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Drugs and nutraceuticals for treating heart failure and lipid risk markers.
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