Polyphenols have been suggested to reduce body weight and modify body composition through different
mechanisms. These effects have been extensively studied in animals and in vitro and to a lesser extent in humans.
The aim of this review is to consider the association between polyphenols and body weight status by focusing on
human intervention studies. We conducted a systematic literature search in MEDLINE (via EBSCOhost),
ProQuest CENTRAL, and Cochrane CENTRAL without time restrictions. Randomized controlled trials
assessing the effect of polyphenols on weight and/or body composition in the overweight and/or obese population
were included. Nineteen studies met our inclusion criteria. Results suggest that further research is required
before supporting a potential role of polyphenols in reducing weight in overweight and obese individuals (nine
studies showed a significant decrease in weight by a mean of 1.47 ± 0.58 kg). Nevertheless, several studies
indicated that polyphenols might be effective in preventing small increases in weight during periods of
overfeeding rather than reducing weight as such. The outcomes noted do not yet support polyphenol
supplementation as a complementary approach in weight loss diets. Further larger trials with a duration of
12 months or more are needed to elucidate the effect of polyphenols on body weight status
