This study evaluates whether ALA intake alters total cholesterol and homeostatic factors and the relationship between these alteration and lipoprotein associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) activity.

An 8-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted with 86 nondiabetic and borderline-to-moderate hypercholesterolemic (200mg/dL ≤ serum cholesterol ≤ 300mg/dL) subjects, not taking any medications and supplements to affect lipid metabolism, platelet function and inflammation, divided into two groups: an α-linolenic acid (ALA) group [1.2 g (two capsules) of perilla oil daily; 497 mg ALA] and a placebo group (1.2 g of medium-chain triglyceride oil daily).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Voluntarily agree to participate and sign in informed consent form
• Adults aged 40-70
• Nondiabetic and hypercholesterolemic subjects (serum cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Subjects taking any medication or supplements known to affect lipid metabolism or platelet function, n-3 fatty acid supplementation or n-3 fatty acid-rich fish more than two times per week
• Following diseases: dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, liver disease, renal disease, pancreatitis, cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disease, cancer, or any other disease requiring treatment
• Participation in clinical trials of any drug or supplement within 30 days prior to the participation of the study
• Pregnant or lactating women, alcoholic, mental patient
• Judged to be inappropriate for the study by the investigator after reviewing other reasons