Polyphenol Health Effects on Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Disorders: A Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Several studies have demonstrated that polyphenol-enriched diets may have beneficial effects against the development of degenerative diseases, including atherosclerosis and disorders affecting the central nervous system. This activity has been associated not only with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but also with additional mechanisms, such as the modulation of lipid metabolism and gut microbiota function. However, long-term studies on humans provided controversial results, making the prediction of polyphenol impact on health uncertain. The aim of this review is to provide an overview and critical analysis of the literature related to the effects of the principal dietary polyphenols on cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders. We critically considered and meta-analyzed randomized controlled clinical trials involving subjects taking polyphenol-based supplements. Although some polyphenols might improve specific markers of cardiovascular risk and cognitive status, many inconsistent data are present in literature. Therefore, definitive recommendations for the use of these compounds in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline are currently not applicable. Once pivotal aspects for the definition of polyphenol bioactivity, such as the characterization of pharmacokinetics and safety, are addressed, it will be possible to have a clear picture of the realistic potential of polyphenols for disease prevention.

The roles of gut microbiota and circadian rhythm in the cardiovascular protective effects of polyphenols

“…Therefore, with the advances in microbiota sequencing techniques, studies of polyphenols should pay particular attention to the population of the gut microbiota in the experimental model. Also, there are many differences found between different studies, in terms of formulation, dose, source, and identity of the polyphenol under investigation, which should be taken into account very carefully (Potì, Santi, Spaggiari, Zimetti, & Zanotti, ). Consensus in the source and dose of polyphenol should be considered in future studies.…”

“…Zanotti, 2019). Consensus in the source and dose of polyphenol should be considered in future studies.…”

Phenolic Antioxidants in Aerial Parts of Wild Vaccinium Species: Towards Pharmaceutical and Biological Properties

“…These benefits are largely attributed to the high content of phenolic compounds in bilberry and lingonberry, compounds that are recognized to have multiple biological activities. In many research papers, it was shown that the antioxidant activity of phenolic compounds is correlated with their health benefits [51][52][53]. Regarding this approach of action of polyphenols as antioxidants in humans, Dangles [3] clarified very well that the cardioprotective effects of phenolic compounds involve their anti-inflammatory rather than their antioxidant properties.…”

Hydroxycinnamic acids and human health: recent advances

“…Data describing the effect of HCAs on the gut microbiota are scarce compared to other classes of phenolics, e.g. anthocyanins . Therefore, a summary of recent studies (pre‐clinical and clinical) and the effect of HCAs on gut microbiota is given below.…”

“…anthocyanins. [236][237][238][239][240] Therefore, a summary of recent studies (pre-clinical and clinical) and the effect of HCAs on gut microbiota is given below.…”