Abstract

Background: There are conflicting findings regarding the effect of low-carbohydrate diets on obesity-related factors. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a carbohydrate-restricted (CR) diet on changes in anthropometric indicators of adiposity and fat distribution in pediatrics populations. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase electronic databases using predefined keywords to identify all randomized controlled trials examining the effects of CR on obesity-related factors. The pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95 confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model. Results: Findings from 11 studies demonstrated significant reductions in weight (WMD: -2.31 kg; 95 CI: -4.44, -0.18), BMI (WMD:-1.08 kg/m2; 95 CI: -1.91, -0.26), and fat mass (WMD: -1.43; 95 CI: -2.43 to -0.43) as well as a significant increase in adiponectin levels (WMD: 0.74 ng/ml; 95 CI: 0.02, 1.47) in the CR diet group compared to the control group. However, no significant effect was observed on BMI z-score (WMD:-0.10; 95 CI: -0.21, 0.01), waist circumference (WMD:-3.03 cm; 95 CI: -6.57, 0.51) or leptin levels (WMD: -0.82 ng/ml; 95 CI: -2.26, 0.61). Stratified analysis rrevealed a greater effect of CR on weight and BMI reduction in interventions ≤ 12 weeks and in very low-carbohydrate diets. Conclusions: In conclusion, it appears that CR diet, along with other lifestyle factors, can lead to significant improvements in weight loss on pediatrics with obesity/overweight. © The Author(s) 2024.