Carotenoids supplementation and inflammation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Hajizadeh-Sharafabad F, Zahabi ES, Malekahmadi M, Zarrin R, Alizadeh M
Published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
Methodology
Random-effects meta-analysis of 26 RCTs (35 effect sizes) on carotenoids and inflammatory biomarkers
Key Findings
Carotenoids reduced CRP (-0.54 mg/L) and IL-6 (-0.54 pg/mL) but not TNF-alpha. In carotenoid-specific analysis astaxanthin significantly lowered CRP (-0.30 mg/L, p=0.005); it did not significantly lower IL-6.
Conclusions
Carotenoids including astaxanthin have modest anti-inflammatory effects, mainly on CRP.
Limitations
Pooled across different carotenoids and doses; heterogeneous populations; surrogate biomarkers only.
Supplements Studied
astaxanthin significantly decreased CRP level
Outcomes Measured
astaxanthin, (WMD: -0.30 mg/L, 95% CI: -0.51, -0.09, P = 0.005) significantly decreased CRP level
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Not reported
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.