Fruit consumption and weight loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Obesity is a disease that affects a large part of the population and worsens its quality of life. Longitudinal and cross-sectional studies associated fruit consumption with weight loss. This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of experimental studies that evaluated the effects of fruit consumption on humans' body weight. It is a systematic review and meta-analysis, following PRISMA's guidelines, in Pubmed and Cochrane's databases. Experimental studies that evaluated the effects of fruit consumption on weight loss were included. Nine studies were included, of which 89% found significant effects on weight loss. In the meta-analysis, there was a significant weight loss of 410 grams compared to the control group [SMD: 0.41; 95% CI:-0.66,-0.15; p=0.59; I2=0%]. The present systematic review and meta analysis demonstrated that consuming more fruits can help with the loss and maintenance of body weight. Interventions based on fruit consumption can be a great option to help decrease the high rates of obesity in the world population.