Efficacy of dietary supplements as an adjunctive therapy for polycystic ovary syndrome: an umbrella meta-analysis
Abstract
Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 5-15% of reproductive-aged women and involves significant metabolic dysregulation, for which nutritional interventions show therapeutic potential. Methods: This umbrella meta-analysis synthesizes evidence from 46 randomized trials (n = 30,133) to evaluate dietary supplements targeting core PCOS pathways.
Methods: This umbrella meta-analysis synthesizes evidence from 46 randomized trials (n = 30,133) to evaluate dietary supplements targeting core PCOS pathways.
Results: Key nutraceuticals demonstrate clinically relevant benefits: myo-inositol significantly improves insulin sensitivity (HOMA-IR SMD = -0.81) and SHBG levels (SMD = 9.65) by enhancing glucose transporter activity; probiotics reduce systemic inflammation (CRP SMD = -0.82) via gut-microbiota modulation; omega-3 fatty acids ameliorate dyslipidemia (LDL-C SMD = -9.57; HDL-C SMD = 2.31) through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Plant-derived compounds like curcumin lower fasting glucose (SMD = -3.43) via NF-ĸB pathway inhibition, while green tea catechins reduce adiposity. Significant heterogeneity arises from variations in supplement bioavailability, dosing protocols, and patient metabolic phenotypes. Nevertheless, consistent evidence confirms that targeted nutrient supplementation modulates insulin signaling, lipid metabolism, and hormonal balance in PCOS. Emerging research priorities include personalized nutrition protocols leveraging nutrigenomic interactions and…
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: 30,133 participants or records.
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