Effects of Inulin Type-Carbohydrates on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Several articles have shown a positive effect of Inulin Type-Carbohydrates (ITC) on blood pressure (BP); nevertheless, these findings are controversial. Therefore, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) proposed to investigate the effects of ITC supplementation on BP. An online search was carried out in PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, Cochrane library, and Google Scholar up to December 2019. Weighted Mean difference (WMD) with 95 confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a Random-effects model. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using Q tests and the I2 statistic. Subgroup analysis was accomplished based on the clinical characteristics (Gender and health status) of the subjects to exclude heterogeneity. We used Begg's rank correlation and Egger's regression asymmetry tests to assess publication bias. The proportion of each study in the overall effect was evaluated by sensitivity analysis. The current meta-analysis of five trials (with six arms) RCTs with 233 participants indicated that supplementation with ITC cannot reduce both systolic BP (WMD: -5.83 mmHg; 95 CI: -12.49, 0.82, P = .086) and diastolic BP (WMD: -2.62 mmHg, 95 CI: -6.15 to 0.92, P = .147). Subgroup analysis based on gender revealed meaningful effects of ITC on SBP in subsets of females. Further well-designed RCTs in subjects with hypertension are required for a more robust assessment of the anti-hypertensive properties of this type of prebiotics.