Effect of Nutritional Interventions on Serum C-reactive Protein Levels in Patients with Periodontitis: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Elevated level of serum C-reactive protein, a systemic inflammation biomarker, is associated with periodontitis, a common inflammatory condition. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the effects of nutritional interventions on serum C-reactive protein levels in patients with periodontitis. We searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases according to PRISMA guidelines, including articles published until December 2023. The articles were selected according to predetermined inclusion criteria, and data extraction and quality assessment were conducted utilizing the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and standardized forms. Seven out of 438 identified articles met the inclusion criteria. We found that patients with periodontitis had a statistically significant correlation between nutritional interventions and decreased serum C-reactive protein levels (p < 0.05). The interventions included specified dietary modifications and dietary supplements, including vitamin C and folic acid. Diverse patient demographics and intervention categories were observed across the identified articles. Thus, this meta-analysis confirmed that nutritional interventions can reduce serum C-reactive protein levels in patients with periodontitis; therefore, dietary modification is essential in managing the systemic inflammation associated with periodontal disease.