Effect of Barley and Oat Consumption on Immune System, Inflammation and Gut Microbiota: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Purpose of review: The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of whole grain Avena sativa and Hordeum vulgare L., or their isolated fractions, on immune and inflammatory functions, as well as their influence on gut microbiota. A structured literature search was undertaken in line with PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effects of oats or barley consumption in adults and reported ≥ 1 of the following: C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-2, IL-8, IL-18, lipopolysacharide binding protein (LBP) or gut microbiota-related outcomes, were included.

Recent findings: A total of 16 RCTs were included, among which 6 studies recruited metabolically at-risk population, including individuals with overweight and obesity, metabolic syndrome or hypercholesterolemia. Additionally, 3 trials involved young healthy population, 5 trials targeted older individuals (aged over 50 years), and 2 studies encompassed populations with other disease states. A total of 1091 individuals were included in the evaluation of short-term (up to 14 days) and long-term (beyond 14 days, up to 90 days) supplementation with oats or barley-based products. 9 studies measured inflammatory biomarkers and 5 of them reported significant reductions, specifically in long-term studies. Notably, no evidence of anti-inflammatory benefits was found in healthy individuals, whereas studies involving metabolically at-risk populations showed promising reductions in inflammation. 13 studies measured the impact on gut microbiota, and collectively suggest that oats and barley food products can influence the composition of gut microbiota, associated in some cases with metabolic improvements. Oats and barley consumption may confer anti-inflammatory effects in metabolically at-risk populations and influence gut microbiota outcomes. However, no anti-inflammatory benefits were observed in healthy individuals. Results from this systematic review suggests caution in interpreting findings due to limited trials and variations in interventions and health conditions.