The effect of raisin (currant) intake on anthropometric indices and blood pressure: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Objective Raisins are a relatively healthy snack, particularly when compared to snacks with a high glycemic index, and can have beneficial effects on human health against chronic disorders. However, contradictory information has been reported on the effect of raisin consumption on anthropometric indices and blood pressure (BP). This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate the effect of raisin consumption on body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in adults. Methods We comprehensively searched electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, ISI Web of Science, and Embase, from inception to February 2021, Overall, 8 randomized clinical trials with 352 participants were included in the present study. Results There was significant effect between raisin consumption and SBP (WMD: 3.45 mmHg, 95% CI: − 6.30, - 0.59, p = 0.01), but no significant effect was found between raisin consumption with DBP (WMD: - 0.51 mmHg, 95% CI: − 2.67, 1.65, p = 0.64), BW (WMD: 0.08 kg, 95% CI: − 0.41, 0.57, p = 0.74), BMI (WMD: 0.02 kg/m2, 95% CI: − 0.54, 0.59, p = 0.93), and WC (WMD: - 0.38 cm, 95% CI: − 1.24, 0.48, p = 0.38). Consumption of raisins can reduce SBP, with greater effects found in unhealthy individuals, in the dosages of ≤ 84 g/d, and intervention durations > 6 weeks. Conclusion It appears that raisins could be advocated as a SBP-reducing snack in the management of hypertension in adults.