The Effect of Yogurt on Human Body Weight: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Experiments

Abstract

Objective: To quantify body weight outcomes from randomized studies using added yogurt as a weight loss intervention. Design: We extracted body weight or body composition outcomes and used a random effects summary of mean differences between treatment and control groups to evaluate overall effects on body weight/body composition outcomes. Data Sources: Cochrane Library and SCOPUS were searched from inception to September 1, 2015. We used search terms: (“yogurt” OR “yoghurt”) AND (“body weight” OR “obesity”), with limits on Human studies published in the English language. Review Methods: Two authors reviewed potential studies according to the following inclusion criteria: Participants were randomly assigned; the study sample was on healthy human adults or children of any age; the intervention duration was at least one week; and body weight or body composition was measured by researchers (no self‐report) and the outcomes were reported (no non‐reported data sought). Results: Six studies were included (N = 242 total participants, 13 comparisons). Most comparisons were between yogurt and other dairy interventions. Two of thirteen comparisons reported significant differences in weight, one favoring yogurt, and one favoring the alternative. Meta‐analysis showed no significant weight change overall: Mean Difference = − 0.02 Kg; 95% Confidence Interval = −0.40 to 0.35; p = 0.90. Low heterogeneity was observed (I 2 = 8%). Conclusions: Existing randomized evidence does not support the hypothesis that yogurt uniquely and significantly affects weight. Data are limited by a small number of studies, with small sample sizes within each study. Support or Funding Information Funded by internal university funds.