α-Linolenic acid and risk of cardiovascular disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Prior studies of α-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-derived omega-3 (n-3) fatty acid, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk have generated inconsistent results.Objective: We conducted a meta-analysis to summarize the evidence regarding the relation of ALA and CVD risk.Design: We searched multiple electronic databases through January 2012 for studies that reported the association between ALA (assessed as dietary intake or as a biomarker...