Dietary Polyphenols and Obesity: A Review of Polyphenol Effects on Lipid and Glucose Metabolism, Mitochondrial Homeostasis, and Starch Digestibility and Absorption

Obesity is a major global public health concern, limiting socio-economic development and human productivity. As studies focus on finding sustainable solutions to this challenge, polyphenols have shown promising results and have become a research focus. This is mainly because of associated lower risks of side effects with their use, compared to synthetic pharmaceuticals. In this study, the anti-obesity potentials of dietary polyphenols have been reviewed. Using a narrative approach, the biological activities of polyphenols and their influence on energy metabolism and mechanisms are discussed. Specifically, their roles in insulin-dependent glucose uptake, insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism and storage in adipocytes, starch digestibility, and regulation of mitophagy and mitogenesis in muscle cells and adipocytes, were considered. After considering the major findings of many related studies, it was confirmed that polyphenols can prevent and ameliorate obesity by fighting insulin resistance (IR) induced by pro-inflammatory cytokines, scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and limiting their effects, and by regulating the expression and/or activity of key enzymes along relevant pathways. More human studies are needed to reveal more about the anti-obesity effects of dietary polyphenols and their effective doses in humans.

Automated summary

Obesity is a global public health concern that hinders socio-economic development and human productivity. Polyphenols have emerged as a promising solution in combating obesity due to their lower side effects compared to synthetic pharmaceuticals. This study reviews the potential anti-obesity effects of dietary polyphenols, focusing on their biological activities, influence on energy metabolism and mechanisms. It highlights their roles in various processes such as glucose uptake, lipid metabolism, and mitochondrial regulation. The findings confirm that polyphenols can prevent and ameliorate obesity through multiple mechanisms, including fighting insulin resistance, scavenging reactive oxygen species, and regulating key enzymes.