BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Chronic inflammation in obese patients can be managed through a calorie-restricted diet, characterized by reduced C - reactive protein (CRP). This study aims to assess the role of such diet on CRP. METHODS: Literature searches were performed using search engines. Randomized controlled trials were included. Calorie-restricted diets in combination with non-diet interventions were excluded. RESULTS: Calorie restriction decreased CRP in obese patients with a mean difference of -0.22 (95% CI -0.40 to -0.04, p 0.006). CONCLUSIONS: Calorie-restricted diet reduces CRP. Diet administration >12 weeks had a beneficial effect.