The effect of propolis on anthropometric indices and lipid profile: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background & objective(s) The current evidence base regarding the impact of propolis consumption on lipid profile in humans is equivocal. Thus, we sought to investigate the impact of propolis consumption on anthropometric indices and lipid profile in this meta-analysis. Methods Cochrane Library, Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science electronic databases were searched up to December 2019. A random-effects model used to pool effect size. The leave-one-out method used to conduct sensitivity analysis. Results Five RCTs were included in this study. Our findings indicated a significant decrease in triglyceride (TG) (WMD: -3.91 mg/dl, 95% CI: -4.22, -3.60), and a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (WMD: 3.41 mg/dl, 95% CI: 0.05, 6.76), however, for body mass index, weight, cholesterol (CL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), no significant alterations were evident. Conclusion This study revealed that consumption of propolis is associated with a reduction in TG levels, in addition to an increase in HDL levels. Nevertheless, additional research is required to further delineate the relationship between propolis consumption and lipid profile.