The effect of algae supplementation on lipid profile and blood pressure in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract

To assess the effects of algae supplementation on lipid profiles and blood pressure in adults, we conducted a systematic search in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A total of 77 RCTs with 3686 participants were included. Algae supplementation significantly reduced triglycerides (TG) (WMD: −7.99 mg/dL, 95 % CI: −12.71, −3.26), total cholesterol (TC) (WMD: −11.01 mg/dL, 95 % CI: −14.26, −7.76), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (WMD: −10.17 mg/dL, 95 % CI: −13.12, −7.22) levels, while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (WMD: 1.66 mg/dL, 95 % CI: 0.73, 2.59). No significant changes were observed in the LDL/HDL ratio and systolic blood pressure (SBP), but diastolic blood pressure (DBP) significantly decreased (WMD: −1.71 mmHg, 95 % CI: −2.72, −0.71). These findings suggest that algae supplementation can improve cardiovascular health markers, although further research is needed to address the observed variability.

Keywords

• Algae supplementation
• Lipid profile
• Spirulina
• Chlorella
• Brown seaweed
• Cardiovascular health