Naringenin is a flavonoid primarily found in citrus fruits, and its use to support metabolic syndrome is based on preclinical scientific research. There is a growing body of in vitro and animal studies suggesting that naringenin exerts beneficial effects on several features of metabolic syndrome, including insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and hypertension. Proposed mechanisms include enhancement of insulin sensitivity, reduction in oxidative stress, modulation of lipid metabolism, and anti-inflammatory effects. For example, studies in rodents have shown that naringenin supplementation can improve glucose tolerance and decrease serum triglycerides and cholesterol.

However, clinical evidence in humans is limited and inconclusive. Few small-scale human trials have been conducted, and while some report improvements in lipid profiles or reductions in markers of inflammation, these findings are not yet robust or consistent enough to establish efficacy for metabolic syndrome management. Major reviews and meta-analyses highlight the need for well-designed, large-scale clinical trials before naringenin can be recommended as a treatment or adjunct therapy for metabolic syndrome in humans.

In summary, while there is promising preclinical scientific evidence, clinical validation is lacking, and the evidence supporting naringenin’s use for metabolic syndrome is rated as low-moderate (2/5).