Melatonin supplementation and anthropometric indicators of obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#body-mass-index #body-weight #dietary-supplements #humans #melatonin

Melatonin supplementation and anthropometric indicators of obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Delpino et al., 2021 | Nutrition | Meta Analysis

Citation

Delpino Felipe Mendes, Figueiredo Lílian Munhoz. Melatonin supplementation and anthropometric indicators of obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrition. 2021;91-92:111399. doi:10.1016/j.nut.2021.111399

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: According to in vivo and in vitro studies, melatonin appears to be a potential supplement for obesity reduction. The aim of this study was to review the literature on randomized clinical trials that evaluated the effects of melatonin supplementation on anthropometric indicators of obesity in humans. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review with meta-analysis in the following databases: Pubmed, LILACS, Scielo, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and Embase. We included studies that evaluated melatonin supplementation's effects, compared with placebo, on anthropometric measures, including body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference, in people ≥18 y of age. This systematic review and meta-analysis were registered on PROSPERO: CRD42021241079. RESULTS: Of the 23 studies included, 11 showed significant results from melatonin supplementation on weight loss, BMI, or waist circumference, compared with placebo. In the meta-analysis, melatonin supplementation significantly reduced body weight (standardized mean difference, -0.48; 95% confidence interval, -0.94 to -0.02; P = <0.01; I2 = 92%). Results for BMI and waist circumference were null. The I2 tests were significant for the analyses with significant results. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrated that melatonin supplementation was responsible for significantly reducing body weight. More studies are needed before melatonin can be recommended for weight loss.

Key Findings

Of the 23 studies included, 11 showed significant results from melatonin supplementation on weight loss, BMI, or waist circumference, compared with placebo. In the meta-analysis, melatonin supplementation significantly reduced body weight (standardized mean difference, -0.48; 95% confidence interval, -0.94 to -0.02; P = <0.01; I2 = 92%). Results for BMI and waist circumference were null. The I2 tests were significant for the analyses with significant results.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size 23
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Body Mass Index
  • Body Weight
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Humans
  • Melatonin
  • Obesity
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Waist Circumference

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: melatonin

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09