Cardiovascular disease risk reduction with wolfberry consumption: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Purpose Wolfberry is rich in bioactive compounds which may lower cardiovascular disease risk. This meta-analysis aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of wolfberry-based randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on overall cardiovascular health. Methods Four online databases (PubMed, CINAHL Plus, Medline and Cochrane Library) were searched to shortlist relevant RCTs. Outcomes of interests included blood lipids and lipoproteins, blood pressure, biomarkers of oxidative stress, inflammation and other cardiovascular health-related indicators. Random-effects models were used to provide a weighted mean difference (WMD) and/or Hedges' g for quantitative synthesis. This was coupled with subcategory analyses which stratified RCTs according to the form in which wolfberry was administered (whole wolfberry versus wolfberry extract). Results From the 785 articles identified, 10 were selected for meta-analysis. Compared to the control, groups which consumed wolfberry showed a reduction in blood triglycerides [WMDpooled (95% confidence interval): - 0.14 (- 0.19, - 0.09) mmol/L] and increased blood high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [WMDpooled: 0.06 (0.02, 0.09) mmol/L]. Notably, effects for both triglycerides [WMDwhole: - 0.14 (- 0.19, - 0.09) mmol/L; WMDextract: - 0.07 (- 0.30, 0.16) mmol/L] and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [WMDwhole: 0.06 (0.02, 0.09) mmol/L; WMDextract: 0.05 (- 0.02, 0.13) mmol/L] were more prominent after whole wolfberry interventions. Additionally, blood malondialdehyde equivalents were also significantly decreased in wolfberry consuming groups [Hedges' g(pooled): - 1.45 (- 2.75, - 0.16)]. No changes were observed for the other lipids and lipoproteins as well as blood pressure. Conclusions Wolfberry consumption is effective in improving blood lipids and lipoproteins profile and lowering oxidative stress. This supports the incorporation of wolfberry, particularly as whole fruits, into dietary patterns targeted at improving cardiovascular health.