The effects of conjugated linoleic acid supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease: A GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis

Abstract

The present systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate the effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors in patients at risk of CVD. Relevant studies were obtained by searching the PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases (from inception to January 2023). Weighted mean differences (WMD) and 95 CI were pooled using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis and publication bias were reported using standard methods. A pooled analysis of 14 randomised controlled trials (RCT) with 17 effect sizes revealed that CLA supplementation led to significant reductions in body weight (WMD: -072 kg, 95 CI: -111, -033, P < 0001), BMI (WMD: -022 kg/m(2), 95 CI: -044, -000, P = 0037) and body fat percentage (BFP) (WMD: -132 , 95 CI: -224, -040, P = 0005). However, there was no effect on lipid profile and blood pressure in comparison with the control group. In conclusion, CLA supplementation may yield a small but significant beneficial effect on anthropometric indices in patients at risk of CVD. Moreover, CLA seems not to have adverse effects on lipid profiles and blood pressure in patients at risk of CVD. It should be noted that the favourable effects of CLA supplementation on anthropometric variables were small and may not reach clinical importance.