The effects of raspberry consumption on lipid profile and blood pressure in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Research into the effects of raspberry on blood pressure and lipid profiles is inconclusive. This meta-analysis was aimed to determine whether raspberry has beneficial effects in clinical practice and to what extent these effects are associated with blood pressure and lipid profiles. A systematic literature search up to September 2023 was completed in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science, to identify eligible RCTs. Heterogeneity tests of the selected trials were performed using the I2 statistic. Random effects models were evaluated based on the heterogeneity tests, and pooled data were determined as weighted mean differences with a 95% confidence interval. Eleven randomized controlled trials (with 13 arms) were eligible for this meta-analysis. Our findings revealed that Raspberry consumption had no significant effects on the blood pressure and lipid profile markers, including systolic blood pressure (SBP) (WMD, −0.37 mm Hg; 95%CI: −2.19 to 1.44; p =.68), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (WMD, −2.14 mm Hg; 95%CI: −4.27 to 0.00; p =.05), total cholesterol (TC) (WMD, −6.83 mg/dL; 95%CI: −15.11 to 1.44; p =.10), triglycerides (TG) (WMD, −5.19 mg/dL: 95%CI: −11.76 to 1.37; p =.12), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) (WMD, −5.19 mg/dL; 95%CI: −11.58 to 1.18; p =.11), and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) (WMD, 0.82 mg/dL; 95%CI: −1.67 to 3.32; p =.51), compared to control groups. Subgroup analysis showed that raspberry consumption significantly decreased total cholesterol and LDL-C levels in people with elevated TC levels, metabolic syndrome, and andropause symptoms, as well as those older than 35, while the consumption of raspberries led to a significant increase in HDL-C levels in females, obese, under 35, and healthy individuals. Raspberry can improve lipid profile and blood pressure, but it is important to keep in mind that further research is necessary to fully understand the exact mechanism of action and a definite conclusion in this regard.