Low-carb and low-fat diets show similar effects on inflammatory markers and adipokines: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials

Chronic low-grade inflammation is implicated in obesity and related diseases. Dietary composition may modulate inflammatory responses, but the comparative effects of low-carb (LC) and low-fat (LF) diets remain unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the impact of LC versus LF diets on circulating levels of IL-6, CRP, TNF-α, adiponectin, leptin, and resistin in adults. Literature searches were conducted in four databases through June 2025. Two independent reviewers screened and extracted data. Meta-analyses using random-effects models were performed; outcomes were reported as standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).