Nutrition and health

Objectives:
The relationship between serum copper (Cu) level and overweight/obesity remains controversial. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does a high serum copper level increase overweight/obesity risk?

Study design:
This review article included 21 articles.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found compared with controls, serum copper level was significantly higher in obese children [SMD = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.16 to 1.32] and in obese adults [SMD = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.02 to 0.76].

The investigators found no significant difference in serum copper level between overweight and control groups in children [SMD = 1.52, 95% CI = -0.07 to 3.12] and in adults [SMD = 0.16, 95% CI = -0.06 to 0.38].

The investigators found subgroup analysis revealed a higher serum copper level in obese children [SMD = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.36 to 1.45] and obese adults [SMD = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.05 to 0.88] compared with healthy weight controls.

The investigators found the SMD differed significantly between obese children diagnosed by weight-for-height and controls [SMD = 1.56, 95% CI = 0.57 to 2.55] and there was a significant difference of serum copper level between obese adults diagnosed by BMI (WHO) and controls [SMD = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.08 to 1.01].

The investigators concluded that a higher serum copper level increases risk of obesity in children and adults and these findings need to be further confirmed.

Original title:
The Relationship Between Serum Copper and Overweight/Obesity: a Meta-analysis by Gu K, Li X, […], Jiang X.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31300957

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on copper and obesity/overweight right here.

Objectives:
The role of zinc in the etiology of type 2 diabetes has been widely reported in recent decades. However, much remains uncertain concerning the effect of zinc on the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does zinc reduce risk of type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 16 studies.
There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in 7 prospective cohort studies and 1 cross-sectional study (146,027 participants aged between 18 and 84 years and of both genders, belonging to different ethnic groups. Of which, 11,511 type 2 diabetes cases) when comparing the highest versus lowest dietary zinc intakes, a significantly reduced risk of 13% [OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.78-0.98, I2 = 64.5%, p = 0.003] for type 2 diabetes.
This relationship was stronger and more evident in rural compared to urban areas [rural areas: OR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.48-0.73, I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.843 versus urban areas: OR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.86-1.02, I2 = 43.9%, p = 0.113].

The investigators found no association between supplementary [OR = 0.94, 95% CI = 0.75-1.19, I2 = 85.4%, p = 0.009] or total zinc intake from both diet and supplementation [OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.82-1.11, I2 = 56.5%, p = 0.129] and type 2 diabetes risk.

The investigators found in population-based studies that high serum/plasma zinc levels significantly increased risk of type 2 diabetes with 64% [OR = 1.64, 95% CI = 1.25-2.14, I2 > 22.5%, p = 0.275].

The investigators concluded high dietary zinc intake reduces risk of type 2 diabetes. This relationship is stronger and more evident in rural compared to urban areas. However, an elevated serum/plasma zinc concentration is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in the general population.

Link:
Zinc Intake and Status and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis by Fernández-Cao JC, Warthon-Medina M, […], Lowe NM.

Link:
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/11/5/1027/htm

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and zinc consumption right here.

Serum/plasma zinc levels can be increased by eating products that contain a lot of zinc and/or taking zinc supplements.
 

Objectives:
Does consumption of fruit or vegetables reduce risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS)?

Study design:
This review article included 9 observational studies (7 cross-sectional studies and 2 cohort studies).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in a dose-response analysis of 2 cohort studies and 7 cross-sectional studies, that an increase of 100 g/d in fruit consumption significantly reduced risk of metabolic syndrome with 3% [OR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.95 to 0.99, I2 = 26.7%], whereas an increase of 100 g/d in vegetable consumption (9 studies) was not associated with a reduction in the metabolic syndrome [OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.96 to 1.01, I2 = 54.6%].

The investigators concluded 100 g/d fruit consumption reduces risk of metabolic syndrome. However, prospective studies or randomised clinical trials are needed to identify the effects of fruits by variety on the risk of the metabolic syndrome.

Original title:
Fruit and vegetable consumption and the metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis by Lee M, Lim M and Kim J.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31514758

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on fruit and vegetable consumption and obesity/overweight right here.

Objectives:
Does magnesium reduce risk of type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 35 cohort studies and 26 RCTs (1,168 participants).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found compared to the lowest magnesium dietary intake, the highest level was associated with a 22% lower risk for type 2 diabetes.

The investigators found the risk for type 2 diabetes was reduced by 6% for each 100mg increment in daily magnesium dietary intake.

The investigators found in 26 RCTs (1,168 participants) that magnesium supplementation significantly reduced:
-the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) level [SMD = -0.32, 95% CI = -0.59 to -0.05];
-2-h oral glucose tolerance test (2-h OGTT) result [SMD = -0.30, 95% CI = -0.58 to -0.02];
-fasting insulin level [SMD = -0.17, 95% CI = -0.30 to -0.04];
-homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) score [SMD = -0.41, 95% CI = -0.71 to -0.11];
-triglyceride (TG) level;
-systolic blood pressure (SBP) and;
-diastolic blood pressure (DBP).

The investigators found trial sequential analysis (TSA) showed an inverse association, with most benefits of magnesium supplementation on glucose metabolism being stable.

The investigators concluded magnesium dietary intake has an inverse dose-response association with type 2 diabetes incidence and supplementation appears to be advisable in terms of glucose parameters in type 2 diabetes/high-risk individuals.

Original title:
Association of Magnesium Consumption with Type 2 Diabetes and Glucose Metabolism: a Systematic Literature Review and Pooled Study with Trial Sequential Analysis by Zhao B, Deng H, [...], Zhang W.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31758631

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and magnesium consumption right here.

Objectives:
Observational evidence suggests higher nut consumption is associated with better glycemic control. However, it is unclear if this association is causal. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there a causal relationship between consumption of tree nuts or peanuts and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 40 RCTs with 2,832 unique participants, with a median duration of 3 months (range: 1-12 months).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found overall consumption of tree nuts or peanuts had a favourable effect on HOMA-IR values [WMD = -0.23, 95% CI = -0.40 to -0.06, I2 = 51.7%] and fasting insulin levels [WMD = -0.40 μIU/mL, 95% CI = -0.73 to -0.07 μIU/mL, I2 = 49.4%].

The investigators found, however, there was no significant effect of nut consumption on fasting blood glucose levels [WMD = -0.52 mg/dL, 95% CI = -1.43 to 0.38 mg/dL, I2 = 53.4%] or HbA1c [WMD = 0.02%, 95% CI = -0.01% to 0.04%, I2 = 51.0%].

The investigators concluded consumption of peanuts or tree nuts decreases HOMA-IR and fasting insulin levels. These findings suggest that nut consumption may improve insulin sensitivity. In the future, well-designed clinical trials are required to elucidate the mechanisms that account for these observed effects.

Original title:
The effect of nuts on markers of glycemic control: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Tindall AM, Johnston EA, […], Petersen KS.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30722007

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and nut consumption right here.

Objectives:
The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) has increased in the US over the last several years. The consumption of low-fat dairy foods has been linked with decreasing the risk of diabetes mellitus but studies have yet to show a clear correlation. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Is there a causal relationship between consumption of low-fat dairy foods and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 30 RCTs.
The total sample size was 2,900 with >50% female participants, but the distribution varied greatly across different studies.
The mean age of subjects ranged from 18-63 years.
The funnel plots for all 3 outcomes (HOMA-IR, waist circumference and body weight) did not suggest significant publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found (794 individuals) comparing high intake to the control group, consumption of low-fat dairy foods significantly reduced the HOMA-IR values [MD = -1.21, 95% CI = -1.74 to -0.67, p 0.00001, I2 = 92%].

The investigators found (1,348 individuals) comparing high intake to the control group, consumption of low-fat dairy foods significantly reduced waist circumference [MD = -1.09 cm, 95% CI = -1.68 to -0.58, p 0.00001, I2 = 94%].

The investigators found for body weight (2,362 individuals), the low-fat dairy foods intervention group weighed 0.42 kg less than the control group [p 0.00001, I2 = 92%].

The investigators found limiting to studies that were assessed to have low risk of bias did not significantly change the point estimates or heterogeneity statistics (Q or I2) for all 3 outcomes.
Similarly excluding studies with a physical activity component did not significantly alter point estimates or heterogeneity statistics for all 3 outcomes.

The investigators concluded low-fat dairy products have a beneficial effect on HOMA-IR, waist circumference and body weight. This could impact dietary recommendations to reduce type 2 diabetes risk.

Original title:
The Effects of Dairy Intake on Insulin Resistance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials by Sochol KM, Johns TS, […], Melamed ML.

Link:
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/11/9/2237/htm

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and dairy products intake right here.

Objectives:
In recent years, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have become a focus topic and global concern. There have been mixed reports on the relationship between whole grain or cereal fiber intake and the risk of type 2 diabetes. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does grain or cereal fiber dietary intake reduce risk of type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 7 cohort studies and 1 case-control study with a total of 434,903 participants and 14,728 cases of type 2 diabetes.
The average follow-up was 12.6 years.
There was no publication bias.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found whole grain or cereal fiber dietary intake was associated with a reduced risk of 26% [combined RR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.67 to 0.82, I2 = 56.8%, p = 0.06] for type 2 diabetes.
This reduced risk was 38% [pooled RR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.64-0.73, I2 = 0.0%, p = 0.452] in sensitivity analysis.

The investigators found whole grain or cereal fiber dietary intake was associated with a reduced risk of 32% [combined RR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.49 to 0.88] for type 2 diabetes among males.

The investigators found whole grain or cereal fiber dietary intake was associated with a reduced risk of 26% [combined RR = 0.74, 95% CI = 0.64 to 0.77] for type 2 diabetes among females.

The investigators concluded that increased whole grain and cereal fiber dietary intake reduce risk of type 2 diabetes.

Original title:
Whole grain and cereal fiber intake and the risk of type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis by Wang Y, Duan Y, […], Jin Y.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6627783/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and fiber intake right here.

Objectives:
The lipid distribution in people who are overweight and obese is directly related to metabolic diseases. Quercetin supplementation may be an appropriate approach for reducing the risk factors of metabolic diseases in people who are obese. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does quercetin supplementation reduce risk factors of metabolic diseases in people who are obese?

Study design:
This review article included 5 RCTs.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found ≥150 mg/day quercetin supplementation during >6 weeks significantly reduced LDL-cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels in people who are obese [SMD = -0.8, 95% CI = -1.21 to -0.39, p 0.00001].

The investigators concluded ≥150 mg/day quercetin supplementation during >6 weeks reduces LDL-cholesterol levels in people who are obese.

Original title:
Quercetin Actions on Lipid Profiles in Overweight and Obese Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis by Guo W, Gong X and Li M.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31465275

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on quercetin, cholesterol and obesity/overweight right here.

Objectives:
L-carnitine plays a fundamental biological role in the metabolism of lipids and may positively affect blood pressure by decreasing insulin resistance, although the latter remains less clear. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does L-carnitine supplementation reduce blood pressure?

Study design:
This review article included 10 RCTs using a random-effects model to estimate the pooled effect sizes of L-carnitine supplementation on systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP).

Results were expressed as weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

No evidence of publication bias was observed about the effects of L-carnitine supplementation on systolic blood pressure [p = 0.307] and diastolic blood pressure [p = 0.729], as evidenced by the results of the Egger's test.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found L-carnitine supplementation decreased diastolic blood pressure [WMD = -1.162 mmHg, 95% CI = -2.020 to -0.303, p = 0.008] without changing systolic blood pressure levels [WMD = -0.085 mmHg, 95% CI = -1.455 to 1.285, p = 0.903].

The investigators found results of subgroup analyses revealed L-carnitine supplementation decreased diastolic blood pressure levels in participants with overweight and obesity [WMD = -1.232 mmHg, 95% CI = -2.297 to -0.167, p = 0.023] and with doses of 2 g/d [WMD = -1.639 mmHg, 95% CI = -3.038 to -0.240, p = 0.022].

The investigators concluded that 2 g/d L-carnitine supplementation decreases diastolic blood pressure in participants with overweight and obesity. However, more research is required to determine the molecular mechanism underlying the relationship between of L-carnitine on blood pressure.

Original title:
Effects of L-carnitine supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Askarpour M, Hadi A, […], Ghaedi E.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31481697

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on L-carnitine and cardiovascular diseases right here.
 

Objectives:
Epidemiological investigations evaluating the association of dietary calcium intake with metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk have yielded controversial results. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does dietary calcium intake reduce risk of metabolic syndrome?

Study design:
This review article included a total 15 cross-sectional studies for dietary calcium intake.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for the highest versus lowest category of dietary calcium intake, a significantly reduced risk of 20% [combined OR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.70 to 0.91] for metabolic syndrome.

The investigators found in dose-response analysis, a non-linear relationship between dietary intake of calcium and risk of metabolic syndrome [p non-linearity > 0.001].

The investigators found 280 mg/d dietary calcium intake significantly reduced risk of metabolic syndrome with 13% [OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.82 to 0.93].

The investigators concluded 280 mg/d dietary calcium intake may reduce risk of metabolic syndrome. May reduce because this review article only included cross-sectional studies and no cohort studies. Therefore, these findings should need to be further confirmed by larger prospective cohort studies.

Original title:
Dietary calcium intake and the risk of metabolic syndrome: evidence from observational studies by Cheng L, Hu D and Jiang W.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30846011

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on calcium and obesity/overweight right here.

Objectives:
Although many studies have shown that low zinc status is associated with diabetes, the putative effects of zinc supplementation on glycemic control are inconclusive. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does zinc supplementation reduce risk of diabetes mellitus?

Study design:
This review article included 32 RCTs, involving a total of 1,700 participants in 14 countries.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found overall, compared with their respective control groups, the subjects in the zinc supplementation group had a statistically significant reduction in concentrations of :
-fasting glucose [WMD = -14.15 mg/dL, 95% CI = -17.36 to -10.93 mg/dL];
-2-h postprandial glucose [WMD = -36.85 mg/dL, 95% CI = -62.05 to -11.65 mg/dL];
-fasting insulin [WMD = -1.82 mU/L, 95% CI = -3.10 to -0.54 mU/L];
-homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance [WMD = -0.73, 95% CI = -1.22 to -0.24]:
-glycated hemoglobin [WMD = -0.55%, 95% CI = -0.84 to -0.27%] and;
-high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [WMD = -1.31 mg/L, 95% CI = -2.05 to -0.56 mg/L].

The investigators found, moreover, subgroup analyses revealed that the effects of zinc supplementation on fasting glucose were significantly influenced by diabetic status and the formulation of the zinc supplement.

The investigators concluded several key glycemic indicators are significantly reduced by zinc supplementation, particularly the fasting glucose in subjects with diabetes and in subjects who received an inorganic zinc supplement. Together, these findings support the notion that zinc supplementation may have clinical potential as an adjunct therapy for preventing or managing diabetes.

Original title:
Zinc supplementation improves glycemic control for diabetes prevention and management: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Wang X, Wu W, [...], Wang F.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31161192

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and zinc right here.

Objectives:
Dietary proteins, including those obtained from animal and plant sources, have inconsistently been correlated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does dietary protein intake increase risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus?

Study design:
This review article included 21 cohort studies with a total of 487,956 individuals and 38,350 T2DM cases (persons with type 2 diabetes mellitus).

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found high total dietary protein intake was associated with an increased risk of 10% for type 2 diabetes mellitus [RR = 1.10, p = 0.006] whereas moderate total dietary protein intake was not significantly associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus risk [RR = 1.00,  p = 0.917].  
Not significantly because the calculated p-value of 0.917 was larger than the p-value of 0.05.

The investigators found, moreover, an increased risk of 13% [RR = 1.13, p = 0.013] for type 2 diabetes mellitus was observed with high  dietary animal protein intake whereas moderate animal protein intake had little or no effect on type 2 diabetes mellitus risk [RR = 1.06, p = 0.058].

The investigators found, high dietary intake of plant protein did not affect type 2 diabetes mellitus risk [RR = 0.93, p = 0.074], whereas moderate intake was associated with a reduced risk of 6% for type 2 diabetes mellitus [RR = 0.94, p  0.001].

The investigators concluded high dietary total protein and dietary animal protein intakes are associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus, whereas moderate plant protein intake is associated with a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Original title:
Dietary protein intake and subsequent risk of type 2 diabetes: a dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies by Ye J, Yu Q, [...], Wang Y.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30929078

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and protein right here.

A diet with high protein intake is a diet with a minimum of 35 En% protein (En% = energy percentage). These products from the supermarket contain at least 35 En% protein.
35 En% protein means that the amounts of protein contribute 35% to the total calories (kcal) of the diet.
If the diet contains 2000 kcal, 175 grams of protein contribute 35% to this 2000 kcal.
1 gram of protein gives 4 kcal. Thus, 175 grams of protein provide 700 kcal and 700 kcal is 35% of 2000 kcal.

A diet with moderate protein consumption is a diet with 20-25 En% protein. The easiest way to follow a diet with moderate protein consumption is to choose only products/meals that also contain 20-25 En% protein. These products from the supermarket contain 20-25 En% protein.

 

Objectives:
The role of gut microbiota in the management of diabetes has been shown. Several current trials are investigating the effect of probiotics and prebiotics, which are widely used to modulate intestinal microbiota, on inflammatory factors and biomarkers of oxidative stress in diabetic patient. However, their findings are controversial. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Do probiotic and synbiotic supplementation improve biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetic patients?

Study design:
This review article included 16 RCTs (n = 1,060).

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reported the effect of probiotics or synbiotics on circulating (serum and plasma) inflammatory marker (hs-CRP) and oxidative stress indicators (malondialdehyde [MDA], glutathione [GSH], nitric oxide [NO] and total antioxidant capacity [TAC]) among patients with diabetes.

The methodological quality varied across these trials.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found probiotic and synbiotic supplementation significantly decreased hs-CRP level [SMD = -0.38, 95% CI = -0.51 to -0.24, p = 0.000] and the oxidative stress indicator malondialdehyde [SMD = -0.61, 95% CI = -0.89 to -0.32, p = 0.000] in diabetic patients compared to those in subjects receiving placebos.

The investigators found, in addition, probiotic and synbiotic supplementation significantly increased total antioxidant capacity [SMD = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.09 to 0.52, p = 0.006], nitric oxide [SMD = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.25 to 0.99, p = 0.001] and glutathione [SMD = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.26, 0.55, p = 0.000] levels.

The investigators concluded that probiotic and synbiotic supplementation improve biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetic patients. Further studies are needed to develop clinical practice guidelines for the management of inflammation and oxidative stress in these patients.

Original title:
The effect of probiotic and synbiotic supplementation on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetic patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Zheng HJ, Guo J, [...], Wang Y.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30794924

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and probiotic and synbiotic supplementation right here.

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in your body. Antioxidants can reduce oxidative stress.
 

Objectives:
Various mechanisms link higher total homocysteine to higher insulin resistance and risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Folate supplementation is recognized as a way to lower homocysteine. However, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) show inconsistent results on insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes outcomes. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does folate supplementation improve insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes outcomes?

Study design:
This review article included 29 RCTs (22,250 participants) that assessed the effect of placebo-controlled folate supplementation alone or in combination with other B vitamins on fasting glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) or risk of type 2 diabetes.

The meta-analysis was conducted using both random- and fixed-effects models to calculate weighted mean differences (WMDs) or risk ratios with 95% CIs.
Heterogeneity was low in all meta-analyses.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found when compared with placebo, folate supplementation significantly lowered fasting insulin [WMD = -13.47 pmol/L, 95% CI = -21.41 to -5.53 pmol/L, p 0.001] and HOMA-IR [WMD = -0.57 units, 95% CI = -0.76 to -0.37 units, p 0.0001], but no overall effects were observed for fasting glucose or HbA1c.

The investigators found subgroup analysis showed no signs of effect modification except for change in homocysteine, with the most pronounced effects in trials with a change of >2.5 µmol/L.
Changes in homocysteine after folate supplementation correlated with changes in fasting glucose [β = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.14, p = 0.025] and HbA1c [β = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.06 to 0.85, p = 0.02].

The investigators found only 2 studies examined folate supplementation on risk of type 2 diabetes and they found no change in RR [pooled RR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.80 to 1.04, p = 0.16].

The investigators concluded that folate supplementation lowers fasting insulin and HOMA-IR. However, folate supplementation does not reduce risk of type 2 diabetes.

Original title:
Effect of folate supplementation on insulin sensitivity and type 2 diabetes: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Lind MV, Lauritzen L, [...], Eriksen JN.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30615110

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and folate (also called folic acid) right here.
 

Objectives:
Is there a relationship between the intake of foods (whole grains, refined grains, vegetables, fruit, nuts, legumes, eggs, dairy, fish, red meat, processed meat and sugar-sweetened beverages) and risk of general overweight/obesity, abdominal obesity and weight gain?

Study design:
This review article included 25 prospective cohort studies until August 2018.
In detail, 6 prospective cohort studies were included in the meta-analysis for consumption of whole grains, 4 studies for refined grains, 7 for vegetables, 6 for fruit, 4 for nuts, 2 for legumes, 2 for eggs, 11 for dairy products, 4 for fish, 4 for red meat, 2 for processed meat and 9 for sugar-sweetened beverages.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found in the dose-response meta-analysis a significantly reduced risk of 7% per each increase of 30g/d whole-grain products [RR overweight/obesity = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.89 to 0.96, I2 = 0%].
There was no indication for a nonlinear association between whole-grain intake and risk of overweight/obesity [p-nonlinearity = 0.16].

The investigators found in the dose-response meta-analysis a significantly reduced risk of 7-9% per each increase of 100g/d fruit consumption [RR overweight/obesity = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.86 to 1.00, I2 = 89% and RR weight gain = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.86 to 0.97, I2 =7%].
There was no indication of a nonlinear relation [p-nonlinearity = 0.17, p-nonlinearity = 0.14, respectively].

The investigators found in the dose-response meta-analysis a significantly reduced risk of 58% per each increase of 28g/d nut consumption [RR abdominal obesity = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.31 to 0.57].

The investigators found in the dose-response meta-analysis a significantly reduced risk of 12% per each increase of 50g/d legume consumption [RR overweight/obesity = 0.88, 95% CI = 0.84 to 0.93].

The investigators found in the dose-response meta-analysis a significantly reduced risk of 17% per each increase of 100g/d fish consumption [RR abdominal obesity = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.71 to 0.97, I2 = 0%].
There was no indication of nonlinearity [p-nonlinearity = 0.07], but the graph indicated a stronger risk reduction at lower levels of fish intake and the curve reached a plateau at ∼40 g/d.

The investigators found in the dose-response meta-analysis a significantly increased risk of 5% per each increase of 30g/d refined grains consumption [RR overweight/obesity = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.00 to 1.10, I2 = 61%].
However, the nonlinear dose-response meta-analysis indicated that the association had a J-shape curve and a higher risk of overweight/obesity was identified for an intake of refined grains >90 g/d [p-nonlinearity 0.001].

The investigators found in the dose-response meta-analysis a significantly increased risk of 10-14% per each increase of 30g/d red meat consumption [RR abdominal obesity = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.04 to 1.16, I2 = 0% and RR weight gain = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.03 to 1.26].

The investigators found in the dose-response meta-analysis a significantly increased risk of 5-12% with each increase of 250 mL sugar-sweetened beverages per day consumption [RR overweight/obesity = 1.05, 95% CI = 1.00 to 1.11 and RR abdominal obesity = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.04 to 1.20, I2 = 38%].  
The increase in risk was stronger at lower amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages intake (until ∼300 mL/d), but an increase at higher intakes was still present [p-nonlinearity = 0.03].

The investigators found the intake of 5 servings of whole grains/d, 3 servings of vegetables/d and 3 servings of fruit/d significantly resulted in a 38% reduction in risk of overweight/obesity compared with non-consumption of these food groups.

The investigators found the intake of 5 servings of refined grains/d and 3 servings of sugar-sweetened beverages/d significantly resulted in a 59% increased risk of overweight/obesity.

The investigators concluded that high intakes of whole grains, vegetables, fruit and probably fish as well as a low intake of refined grains, red meat and sugar-sweetened beverages are associated with a reduced risk of measures of adiposity, including overweight/obesity, abdominal obesity or weight gain, respectively. These findings are in line with current public health recommendations regarding a health-promoting diet. However, with the current evidence rated as very low to low, findings should be interpreted with caution and better-designed observational studies, more evidence from intervention trials and use of novel statistical methods (e.g., substitution analyses or network meta-analyses) are needed.

Original title:
Food Groups and Risk of Overweight, Obesity, and Weight Gain: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies by Schlesinger S, Neuenschwander M, […], Schwingshackl BH.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6416048/

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Objectives:
Is there a relationship between nut consumption and metabolic syndrome (MetS)?

Study design:
This review article included a total of 11 observational studies (6 cross-sectional and 5 prospective cohort studies), which involved a total of 89,224 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found nut consumption significantly reduced risk of metabolic syndrome with 16% [overall multivariable adjusted RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.76-0.92, p  0.001].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis tree nut consumption significantly reduced risk of metabolic syndrome with 3% [RR = 0.97, 95% CI = 0.94-1.00, p =0.04]. However, this reduced risk was not significant in peanuts [RR = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.96-1.06, p = 0.68].

The investigators concluded nut consumption reduces risk of metabolic syndrome. However, this reduced risk is only found in tree nuts, not in peanuts. More well-designed studies with detailed specifications of nut varieties are needed to further elaborate the issues examined in this meta-analysis.

Original title:
Relationship Between Nut Consumption and Metabolic Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies by Zhang Y and Zhang DZ.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30716015

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on nut consumption and overweight right here.

Objectives:
Evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggests that viscous dietary fiber may offer beneficial effects on glycemic control and, thus, an improved cardiovascular disease risk profile. Therefore, this review article (meta-analysis) has been conducted.

Does viscous dietary fiber supplementation improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 28 RCTs of ≥3 weeks in duration that assessed the effects of viscous fiber on markers of glycemic control in type 2 diabetes with a total of 1,394 participants.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that viscous fiber at a median dose of ∼13.1 g/day significantly reduced HbA1c in type 2 diabetes [MD = -0.58%, 95% CI = -0.88 to -0.28, p = 0.0002] compared with control and in addition to standard of care.

The investigators found that viscous fiber at a median dose of ∼13.1 g/day significantly reduced fasting blood glucose in type 2 diabetes [MD = -0.82 mmol/L, 95% CI = -1.32 to -0.31, p = 0.001] compared with control and in addition to standard of care. 

The investigators found that viscous fiber at a median dose of ∼13.1 g/day significantly reduced HOMA-insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes [MD = -1.89, 95% CI = -3.45 to -0.33, p = 0.02] compared with control and in addition to standard of care.

The investigators found the certainty of evidence was graded moderate for HbA1c, fasting glucose, fasting insulin and HOMA-IR and low for fructosamine.

The investigators concluded that 13.1 g/day viscous fiber supplements improve conventional markers of glycemic control beyond usual care and should be considered in the management of type 2 diabetes.

Original title:
Should Viscous Fiber Supplements Be Considered in Diabetes Control? Results From a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials by Jovanovski E, Khayyat R, […], Vuksan V.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30617143

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and dietary fiber right here.

Objectives:
Diabetes prevention is a public health priority. Vitamin D supplementation may help prevent the development of diabetes in persons at increased risk. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does vitamin D supplementation reduce risk of type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 28 RCTs with 3,848 participants.

The sample size varied from 23 to 511.
The mean age of participants ranged from 26 years to 71 years.
The duration of follow-up across studies ranged from 2 months to 5 years, with a median follow-up of 22 weeks [interquartile range (IQR): 14 to 48 weeks], a duration long enough to detect changes in measured outcomes.

The average vitamin D supplementation dose of 88 µg/d (3500 IU/d).
All included trials measured the effect of vitamin D supplementation on serum 25(OH)D concentrations.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found overall, serum 25(OH)D concentrations in the treated arms (vitamin D-supplemented groups) significantly improved by 45.1 nmol/L [95% CI = 41.3 to 48.9, p 0.001, I2 = 97.4%].

The investigators found compared with the control group, vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced HbA1c level by -0.48% [95% CI = -0.79 to -0.18, p = 0.002, I2 = 92.1%].
However, after adjusting the effect size for potential publication bias using the “trim and fill” method, 4 potentially missing studies were imputed in the funnel plot and the effect size increased from -0.48% [95% CI = -0.79 to -0.18] to -0.71% [95% CI = -1.02 to -0.39].

The investigators found compared with the control group, vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced fasting plasma glucose level by -0.46 mmol/L [95% CI = -0.74 to -0.19, p = 0.001, I2 = 92.4%].  
However, after adjusting the effect size for potential publication bias using the “trim and fill” method, 6 potentially missing studies were imputed in the funnel plot and the effect size increased -0.46 mmol/L [95% CI = -0.74 to ­0.19] to -0.72 mmol/L [95% CI =-1.02 to -0.42].

The investigators found compared with the control group, vitamin D supplementation significantly reduced HOMA-IR level by -0.39 [95% CI = -0.68 to -0.11, p = 0.007, I2 = 91.3%].
However, after adjusting the effect size for potential publication bias using the “trim and fill” method, 5 potentially missing studies were imputed in the funnel plot and the effect size increased from -0.39 [95% CI = -0.68 to -0.11] to -0.62 [95% CI = -0.92 to -0.32].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis both HbA1c and HOMA-IR showed a greater reduction over time among overweight/obese individuals compared with prediabetics [HbA1c = -0.98 ± 0.45 vs -0.29 ± 0.14, p = 0.1 and HOMA-IR = -0.62 ± 0.23 vs -0.07 ± 0.16, p = 0.05].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis vitamin D supplementation significantly decreased HbA1c [p = 0.05], fasting plasma glucose level [p = 0.05] and HOMA-IR [p = 0.1] to a greater extent when serum 25(OH)D concentration achieved was above 86 nmol/L.

The investigators found in subgroup analysis vitamin D supplementation for less than 6 months provided a larger effect size on HbA1c in comparison with long durations [-0.75 ± 0.33 vs -0.25 ± 0.11, p = 0.1].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis HbA1c showed greater improvement in populations with a mean age younger than 45 years in comparison with older populations [-1.15 ± 0.6 vs -0.30 ± 0.1, p = 0.05].

The investigators found in subgroup analysis greater reductions were found within HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose levels when baseline (at the beginning of the study) mean serum 25(OH)D concentration was ≥50 nmol/L, whereas the lowering effect was significantly less in the subgroup with baseline mean 25(OH)D 50 nmol/L [HbA1c = -0.79 ± 0.25 vs -0.14 ± 0.13, p = 0.04 and fasting plasma glucose level = -0.69 ± 0.21 vs -0.11 ± 0.10, p = 0.05].

The investigators concluded 88 µg/d vitamin D supplementation during 22 weeks improves glycemic measures and insulin sensitivity and may be useful as part of a preventive strategy for type 2 diabetes, particularly among overweight/obese individuals younger than 45 years.

Original title:
Vitamin D Supplementation, Glycemic Control, and Insulin Resistance in Prediabetics: A Meta-Analysis by Mirhosseini N, Vatanparast H, [...], Kimball SM.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6016617/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes and vitamin D right here.

HbA1c, FPG, HOMA-IR and plasma glucose after 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (2HPG) are different parameters associated with (pre)diabetes.

 

Objectives:
Has flavonoid supplementation potential against obesity?

Study design:
This review article included 58 RCTs.
Analysis endpoints were calculated as the mean difference between baseline and post-treatment.
Flavonoids were in subclasses of flavanols, flavonols, isoflavones, flavanones, anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins. They were mostly in the form of supplements and dosages varying from 40 to 1300 mg/day.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found among flavonoid subclasses, flavanols showed potential for decreasing BMI, in the overall population [MD = -0.28 kg/m², p = 0.04, n = 21] and in the subgroups of Asians [MD = -0.42 kg/m², p = 0.046, n = 13], ages 50 years [MD = -0.50 kg/m², p = 0.008, n = 14], BMI ≥25 kg/m² [MD = -0.30 kg/m², p = 0.049, n = 15] and at doses ≥500 mg/day [MD = -0.36 kg/m², p = 0.049, n = 12].

The investigators found among flavonoid subclasses, isoflavones also significantly decreased BMI of non-Asian populations [MD = -0.26 kg/m², p = 0.035, n = 13] and doses ≥75 mg/day [MD = -0.34 kg/m², p = 0.027, n = 8].

The investigators found in the overall assessment, flavanols also significantly decreased waist circumference [MD = -0.60 cm, p = 0.02, n = 18] but had no significant effect on body fat percentage.

The investigators found the available trials did not reveal significant effects from flavonols, flavanones and anthocyanins on the specified anthropometric measures.

The investigators concluded that flavanols, particularly ≥500 mg/day and isoflavones, particularly ≥75 mg/day have potential against obesity.

Original title:
Flavanols are potential anti-obesity agents, a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled clinical trials by Akhlaghi M, Ghobadi S, […], Mohammadian F.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29759310

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on flavonoids and overweight right here.

Objectives:
Carbohydrate-restricted diets may increase low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol or bad cholesterol) and thereby cardiovascular risk. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do carbohydrate restriction diets increase cholesterol and triglycerides levels in overweight/obese adults?

Study design:
This review article included 8 RCTs with a total of 1,633 participants, of which 818 in carbohydrate-restricted diet group (intervention group) and 815 low-fat diet group (control group).

All RCTs had more than 100 participants with duration of at least 6 months.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found when compared with low-fat diets, carbohydrate-restricted diets showed no significant difference in LDL-cholesterol levels after 6, 12 and 24 months.
Although an overall pooled analysis statistically favoured low-fat diets [0.07 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.02-0.13, p = 0.009], this was clinically insignificant.

The investigators found when compared with low-fat diets, carbohydrate-restricted diets significant increased HDL-cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels [0.08 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.06-0.11, p 0.00001] after 6 and 12 months.
These favourable changes were more marked in the subgroup with very-low carbohydrate content [50 g/d: 0.12 mmol/L, 95% CI = 0.10-0.14, p  0.00001].

The investigators found when compared with low-fat diets, carbohydrate-restricted diets significant reduced plasma triglycerides levels [-0.13 mmol/L, 95% CI = -0.19 to -0.08, p  0.00001 after 6 and 12 months.
These favourable changes were more marked in the subgroup with very-low carbohydrate content [50 g/d: -0.19 mmol/L, 95% CI = -0.26 to -0.12, p = 0.02].

The investigators concluded large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of at least 6 months duration with carbohydrate restriction, particularly 50 g/d carbohydrates, is superior in improving HDL-cholesterol and triglycerides levels in overweight/obese adults when compared with low-fat diets. Dietary guidelines should consider carbohydrate restriction as an alternative dietary strategy for the prevention/management of dyslipidemia for populations with cardiometabolic risk.

Original title:
Effects of carbohydrate-restricted diets on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in overweight and obese adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Gjuladin-Hellon T, Davies IG, […], Amiri Baghbadorani R.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30544168

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on carbohydrate, cholesterol and overweight right here.

50 grams of carbohydrates per day corresponds to a diet with 10 En% carbohydrates.
The easiest way to follow a diet with 10 En% carbohydrates is to choose only meals/products with 10 En% carbohydrates.
However, the most practical way to follow a diet with 10 En% carbohydrates is all meals/products that you eat on a daily basis should contain on average 10 En% carbohydrates. Check here which products contain 10 En% carbohydrates.

Objectives:
Cocoa and dark chocolate (DC) have been reported to be effective for health promotion; however the exact effect of cocoa/dark chocolate on anthropometric measures have not been yet defined. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Has cocoa/dark chocolate supplementation positive effect on weight, BMI and waist circumference (WC)?   

Study design:
This review article included a total of 35 RCTs, investigating the effects of cocoa/dark chocolate on weight, BMI and waist circumference.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found meta-analysis did not suggest any significant effect of cocoa/dark chocolate supplementation on:
-body weight [-0.108 kg, 95% CI = -0.262 to 0.046 p = 0.168]
-BMI [-0.014 kg/m², 95% CI = -0.105 to 0.077, p = 0.759] and
-WC [0.025 cm, 95% CI = -0.083 to 0.129, p = 0.640].

The investigators found, however, subgroup analysis revealed that weight and BMI were significantly reduced with ≥ 30g chocolate per day during 4-8 weeks.

Furthermore, supplementation of ≥ 30g chocolate per day during 4-8 weeks significantly reduced waist circumference in non-linear fashion [r = 0.042, p-nonlinearity = 0.008].

The investigators concluded that ≥ 30g chocolate per day during 4-8 weeks reduce weight, BMI and waist circumference.

Original title:
Does cocoa/dark chocolate supplementation have favorable effect on body weight, body mass index and waist circumference? A systematic review, meta-analysis and dose-response of randomized clinical trials by Kord-Varkaneh H, Ghaedi E, […], Shab-Bidar S.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29553824

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on meta-analysis, chocolate consumption and overweight right here.

Objectives:
High potato intake has been suggested as a risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does potato intake increase risk of type 2 diabetes?

Study design:
This review article included 6 prospective cohort studies with a total of 4,545,230 person-year of follow-up and 17,758 diabetes cases.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found for every increment of 1 serving/day of total potato consumption a significantly increased risk of 20% [HR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.127, p 0.001, I2 = 27.1%, p for heterogeneity = 0.23] for type 2 diabetes both in men en women.

The investigators found for 2 servings/day of total potato consumption a significantly increased risk of 44% [HR = 1.44, 95% CI = 1.28 to 1.63] for type 2 diabetes both in men en women.

The investigators found for 3 servings/day of total potato consumption a significantly increased risk of 74% [HR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.45 to 2.09] for type 2 diabetes both in men en women.

The investigators found significant evidence of a non-linear association between total potato consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes [X2 = 17.5, p for linearity 0.001].

The investigators concluded that long-term high consumption of potato (each serving a day increase) is strongly associated with increased risk of type 2 diabetes. These findings suggest that diet-health policy may be of importance in the prevention of diabetes.

Original title:
Potato consumption and risk of type 2 diabetes: A dose-response meta-analysis of cohort studies by Bidel Z, Teymoori F, […], Nazarzadeh M.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30144898

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According to the USDA Dietary Guidelines a serving of potato is 1 cup diced, mashed or baked or 1 medium boiled potato.

 

Objectives:
Modifiable factors that reduce the burden of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), particularly plant-derived biomarkers, have been a recent focus of rising interest. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Do dietary carotenoids reduce risk of metabolic syndrome?  

Study design:
This review article included 11 cross-sectional studies.
Publication bias was absent and harvest plots indicated consistency upon replication for β-carotene and total carotenoid exposures.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found dietary total carotenoids intake significantly reduced risk of metabolic syndrome with 44% [pooled OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.56-0.78, 1 SD ∼ 0.82 µmol/L, n = 5 studies]. This reduced risk was the strongest for β-carotene, followed by α-carotene and β-crypotoxanthin.

The investigators found no association between retinol (vitamin A from animal products) and risk of metabolic syndrome [pooled OR = 1.00, 95% CI = 0.88-1.13, 1 SD ∼ 2.14 µmol/L, n = 6 studies].

The investigators concluded that carotenoids, particularly β-carotene, followed by α-carotene and β-crypotoxanthin may reduce risk of metabolic syndrome. May reduce because this review article only included cross-sectional studies and no cohort studies.

Original title:
Carotenoids, vitamin A, and their association with the metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis by Beydoun MA, Chen X, [...], Canas JA.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30202882

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Find more information/studies on carotenoids consumption, vitamin A and overweight right here.

Objectives:
Several studies have been published about the effect of garlic on lipid profile and blood glucose in diabetic patients. Which, the results mostly contradict with each other. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

Does garlic improve lipid profile and blood glucose in diabetic patients?

Study design:
This review article included 33 articles with a total of 1,273 individuals, with a mean of 39 samples per study.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found the concentration of serum total cholesterol significantly decreased wih 16.87 mg/dL [95% CI = -21.01 to -12.73, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators found the concentration of serum LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) significantly decreased with 9.65 mg/dL [95% CI = -15.07 to -4.23, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators found the concentration of serum triglycerides significantly decreased with 12.44 mg/dL [95% CI = -18.19 to -6.69, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators found the concentration of serum HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) significantly increased with 3.19 mg/dL [95% CI = 1.85 to 4.53, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators found the concentration of serum fasting blood sugar significantly decreased with 10.90 mg/dL [95% CI = -16.40 to -5.40, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators found the concentration of serum HbA1c significantly decreased with 0.60 mg/dL [95% CI = -0.98 to -0.22, p = 0.001] in the garlic group when compared with the placebo group.

The investigators concluded that garlic improves lipid profile as well as glucose parameters and can be therapeutically effective in patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

Original title:
The effect of garlic on lipid profile and glucose parameters in diabetic patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis by Shabani E, Sayemiri K and Mohammadpour M.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30049636

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on diabetes, cholesterol, meta-analyses/heterogeneity and garlic right here.

 

Objectives:
What are the effects of ginger intake on weight loss, glycemic control and lipid profiles among overweight (BMI>25) and obese (BMI>30) subjects?

Study design:
This review article included 14 RCTs with in total of 473 subjects.

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found that supplementation with ginger significantly decreased among overweight (BMI>25) and obese (BMI>30) subjects:
-body weight (BW) [SMD -0.66, 95% CI = -1.31 to -0.01, p = 0.04];
-waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) [SMD = -0.49, 95% CI = -0.82 to -0.17, p = 0.003];
-hip ratio (HR) [SMD = -0.42, 95% CI = -0.77 to -0.08, p = 0.01];
-fasting glucose [SMD = -0.68, 95% CI = -1.23 to -0.05, p = 0.03] and;
-insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) [SMD= -1.67, 95% CI = -2.86 to -0.48, p = 0.006].

The investigators found that supplementation with ginger significantly increased HDL-cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels [SMD = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.10 to 0.70, p = 0.009] among overweight (BMI>25) and obese (BMI>30) subjects.

The investigators found, however, that supplementation with ginger had no detrimental effect on:
-body mass index (BMI) [SMD = -0.65, 95% CI = -1.36 to 0.06, p = 0.074];
-insulin [SMD = -0.54, 95% CI = -1.43 to 0.35, p = 0.23];
-triglycerides [SMD = -0.27, 95% CI = -0.71 to 0.18, p = 0.24];
-total cholesterol [SMD = -0.20, 95% CI = -0.58 to 0.18, p = 0.30] and;
-LDL-cholesterol [SMD = -0.13, 95% CI = -0.51 to 0.24, p = 0.48].

The investigators concluded that ginger intake reduces body weight, waist-to-hip ratio, hip ratio, fasting glucose and insulin resistance index and increases HDL-cholesterol (good cholesterol), but has no affect on insulin, BMI, triglycerides, total- and LDL-cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels among overweight and obese subjects.

Original title:
The effects of ginger intake on weight loss and metabolic profiles among overweight and obese subjects: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials by Maharlouei N, Tabrizi R, […], Asemi Z.

Link:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29393665

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on cholesterol, overweight and diabetes right here.

Persons with overweight are advised to choose products/meals with maximum 30 En% fat, maximum 7 En% saturated fat, maximum 0.2 grams salt per 100 kcal and minimum 1.5 grams fiber per 100 kcal. Check here which products/meals are suitable for persons with overweight.