The effects of pomegranate consumption on lipid profile in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Inconsistent evidence exists regarding the impact of pomegranate on lipid profile. Hence, this meta-analysis aimed to identify this effect. Methods: Database search was performed until June 2023 to identify eligible trials. Estimated 95 % confidence (CI) and the weighted mean difference (WMD) was used for triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) through the random-effects model. Results: Analyzing overall effect sizes for TG and TC demonstrated a significant reduction in TG levels (WMD-12.65 mg/dL; 95%CI: −20.13 to −5.17; p = 0.001), whereas indicated no significant alteration in TC levels (WMD: −3.82 mg/dL; 95%CI: −7.66 to 0.02; p = 0.052). Pomegranate intake had a significant diminishing effect on LDL-C levels (WMD: −3.07 mg/dl; 95%CI: −5.70 to −0.44; p = 0.022), and a significant increasing influence on HDL-C levels (WMD: 2.53 mg/dl; 95%CI: 1.08 to 3.62; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Pomegranate consumption has a beneficial effect in improving TG, LDL-C, and HDL-C levels. Prospero registration code: CRD42023403365.

Keywords

• Pomegranate
• Lipid profile
• Hyperlipidemia
• Systematic review
• Meta-analysis