The Effect of Algae Supplementation on Lipid Profile and Blood Pressure in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Publisher



Arzhang P¹ ; Arghavan H² ; Kazeminejad S^{3, 4} ; Mohammadi F² ; Baniasadi MM^{3, 4} ; Bavani NG⁵ ; Darvishi H⁶ ; Azadbakht L³
Source: Journal of Functional Foods Published:2024

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. © 2024 The Author(s)