Kratom Users Show 44% Lower Odds of Metabolic Syndrome in Thai Study

Why it matters

A large Thai community study found kratom users had significantly lower rates of metabolic syndrome than non-users — a provocative finding suggesting potential metabolic benefits that demand further investigation.

The big picture

While kratom is often discussed purely in terms of risks, this study from its native Thailand adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting it may have favorable metabolic effects. Understanding why could open new therapeutic avenues — or reveal important confounders.

Key findings

• • Metabolic syndrome prevalence: 11.9% in kratom users vs. 21.6% in non-users (adjusted OR 0.56 — 44% lower odds)
• • Kratom users had smaller waist circumference, lower triglycerides, and higher HDL cholesterol
• • Study included 581 subjects (users and non-users) from Surat Thani province, Thailand
• • Association remained significant after multivariate logistic regression controlling for confounders
• • Authors conclude kratom use may have a potential protective effect against metabolic syndrome

Bottom line

Cross-sectional study of 581 adults from Nam Phu sub-district, Surat Thani province, Thailand; Walailak University; published in Heliyon (May 2022).