Effects of guarana (Paullinia cupana) powder on obesity-associated diseases in animal models: A systematic review

Abstract

Obesity, a public health problem and a risk factor for numerous comorbidities, has stimulated a growing interest in bioactive-rich foods, such as guarana (Paullinia cupana). This systematic review examined the impact of guarana on obesity-related diseases using animal models from January 1990 and November 2023. Seven articles were included in this review, examining guarana’s impact on hyperlipidemia, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and obesity. The studies used powdered guarana, provided by orogastric gavage or incorporated into the diet, with doses ranging from 12.5 mg/kg to 2 g/kg. Compelling evidence from our systematic review suggests that guarana powder positively affects biometric parameters, energy metabolism, and biochemical and inflammatory biomarkers, indicating its potential for addressing obesity-related conditions. However, due to the limited number of studies, additional research, including human, clinical trials, is needed to confirm the applicability of these findings to human health and to clarify the mechanisms of action of guarana's bioactive compounds.

Keywords

• Bioactive compounds
• Caffeine
• Guarana
• Paullinia cupana
• Polyphenols
• Obesity