Synergistic Effects of Combined Diet and Exercise on Body Composition in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Introduction: Obesity and poor body composition are major contributors to chronic disease risk inadults. This review aimed to compare the effectiveness of exercise-only, diet-only, and combined interventions in improving body composition outcomes.
Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted based on Judies published between 2016 and 2024 from Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. Forty-six Judies involving 3,429 adults across five continents met inclusion criteria. Quality appraisal followed PRISMA and MMAT guidelines. A meta-analysis using RevMan 5.4 included six eligible Judies.
Results: Combined interventions resulted in the most consistent improvements in body mass index (BMI) (SMD, -1.74; 95 % CI: -3.07 to -0.40; P = .01 ), body fat percentage (%BF) (SMD, -2.40; 95 % CI: -2.91 to -1.88; P < .00001), and total body water (TBW) (SMD, 1.54; 95 % CI: 1.04 to 2.04; P < .00001). Exercise-only and diet-only approaches also improved BMI and fat mass but had limited effects on muscle mass and TBW.
Conclusions: Integrated interventions combining physical activity and dietary changes are more effective than single-modality strategies. Programs of at least 12 weeks with supervision and cultural adaptation are recommended for optimal improvements in adult body composition.
Systematic review registration: This Systematic review is registered at PROSPERO (Reference number: CRD420251020596).
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 3,429 participants or records.
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