Effects of Cinnamon Supplementation on Lipid Profile: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Abstract

Since the effects of cinnamon supplementation on lipid profiles are still controversial, this study conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to assess the effect of cinnamon supplementation on lipid profiles. The study was designed and conducted according to the guidelines of the 2020 preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) statements. A systematic and comprehensive search was performed in several databases from inception up to 11 November 2023. The meta-analysis on the impact of Cinnamon on lipid profiles indicates a non-significant overall effect on low-density lipoprotein (weighted mean differences [WMD], -2.48; 95% confidence interval [CI], -9.70, 4.72). However, significant reductions are seen with doses < 500 mg/day (-10.26), and non-significant increases with doses ≥ 500 mg/day (1.18). The overall effect on high-density lipoprotein is non-significant (WMD, 3.97; 95% CI, -7.877, 15.831), showing varying responses at different doses. Triglycerides exhibit a significant overall reduction (WMD, -6.88; 95% CI, -12.62, -1.15), particularly in the < 500 mg/day group. The overall effect on cholesterol is non-significant (WMD, -4.314; 95% CI, -15.011, 6.384), with diverse responses at different doses. High heterogeneity underlines the importance of standardized study designs and further exploration of dosage-specific effects. Findings from this study suggest that cinnamon supplements might be beneficial to modulate the blood lipid profile.