The impact of flaxseed oil on lipid profiles, weight loss, and inflammatory markers in hemodialysis patients: A systematic review and meta- analysis of randomized controlled trials

Studies investigating the effects of flaxseed oil on lipid profiles, weight loss, and inflammatory
markers have produced inconsistent results. This systematic review and meta-analysis of
randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to explore the impact of flaxseed oil on these
parameters in hemodialysis patients. The study protocol was registered online (PROSPERO number: CRD42023484076). The meta-analyses showed a significant decrease in triglyceride
(TG) levels (WMD = -85.78 mg/dL, 95% CI: -155.24 to -16.32, I 2  = 98.32%) and C-reactive
protein (CRP) levels (WMD = -2.66 mg/L, 95% CI: -4.07 to -1.24, I 2  = 92.26%) following
consumption of flaxseed oil. Subgroup analyses revealed significant changes in LDL-C, HDL-C,
and TC levels only in trials utilizing a dosage higher than 10 g per day and using ground
flaxseed oil. Based on the results, flaxseed oil improves CRP and TG levels, and higher doses
positively affect lipid profiles. However, it has no significant effect on anthropometric measures.