The Effect of Aronia melanocarpa (Chokeberry) on Body Weight and Fasting Blood Sugar: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Plant derivatives, particularly anthocyanin-rich phytochemicals, have been shown to positively influence metabolic parameters. This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analysis the effects of Aronia melanocarpa consumption on body weight and fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar up to January 2025. Results were reported as weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using a random effects model. Heterogeneity among studies was evaluated with the Cochrane Q test and I-squared (I2), and subgroup analysis was performed to identify specific sources of heterogeneity. RESULTS: Seven studies were identified and included in this meta-analysis. The findings revealed no significant reductions in FBS (WMDs: 0.05 mmol/L, 95% CI: -0.05 to 0.16, p = 0.341), body weight (BW) (WMDs: -0.66 kg, 95% CI: -2.54, 1.22, p = 0.494), body mass index (BMI) (WMDs: 0.18 kg/m2, 95% CI: -0.17, 0.53, p = 0.494), and waist circumference (WC) (WMDs: 0.63 cm, 95% CI: -1.18 to 2.44, p = 0.493) in the Aronia melanocarpa treatment group. Additionally, subgroup analysis of the included randomised controlled trials showed no significant effects of Aronia melanocarpa consumption on BW and BMI. CONCLUSION: The present meta-analysis indicates that Aronia berry consumption does not affect the aforementioned variables. However, further clinical data and research into the mechanisms of Aronia melanocarpa are needed to better understand its potential benefits on glycemic markers and anthropometric measures.