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Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessing the impact of fish consumption on micronutrient status of children.

  • 2026-06-09
  • Frontiers in nutrition 13
    • Molly Ahern
    • Bahar Kucuk
    • Maria Wik Markhus
    • Marian Kjellevold

Study Design

Type
Systematic Review
Sample size
n = 850
Population
children (2-14 years)
Methods
Systematic review and meta-analysis of three databases searched for studies comparing biomarker-based micronutrient status among children with fish vs low or no fish intake; risk of bias assessed using RoB2; meta- and narrative analyses with GRADE evaluation.

Introduction

Fish consumption contributes to overall nutrient intake and health, but its effects on micronutrient status remain uncertain. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the impact of fish consumption on the micronutrient status of children.

Methods

Three databases were searched (April 2025) for studies comparing biomarker-based micronutrient status among children (2-14 years) with fish versus low or no fish intake. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB2, and findings were synthesized through meta- and narrative analyses with GRADE evaluation.

Results

Seven studies (six randomized controlled trials) met inclusion criteria, covering nine biomarkers, including 25(OH)D, urinary iodine concentration, ferritin, hemoglobin, retinol, beta-carotene, calcium, cobalamin, and folate. Three studies had low risk of bias, two moderate, and one high. Meta-analysis was possible only for vitamin D (25(OH)D, 1,074 participants), showing a pooled mean difference of 4.08 nmol/L (95% CI: 1.73-6.43) favoring fish consumption; sensitivity analysis (850 participants) yielded 3.46 nmol/L (95% CI: 1.03-5.65), with no heterogeneity. Results for other biomarkers were largely nonsignificant.

Conclusion

Fish consumption modestly improves vitamin D status in children, though effects may lack clinical relevance. Evidence for other micronutrients is inconsistent, highlighting the need for more rigorous studies.

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