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Dietary polyphenols: Structures, bioavailability and protective effects against atherosclerosis.
Abishek B Santhakumar1, Maurizio Battino2, José M Alvarez-Suarez3
1Australian Research Council (ARC) Industrial Transformation Training Centre (ITTC) for Functional Grains, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, 2678, Australia.
Summary
Dietary polyphenols from fruits and vegetables promote longevity and reduce chronic inflammatory diseases. These compounds offer cardioprotective effects by regulating lipid metabolism and vascular function, preventing atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Cardiovascular Research
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Epidemiological studies link fruit and vegetable consumption to increased life expectancy and reduced chronic inflammatory diseases, including cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
- Bioactive compounds, particularly polyphenols found in fruits and vegetables, are associated with these health benefits.
- Polyphenols' cardioprotective effects extend beyond antioxidant properties, influencing multiple pathways involved in atherosclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review experimental studies and clinical trials on the atheroprotective effects of dietary polyphenols.
- To explore the mechanisms by which polyphenols modulate key factors in atherosclerotic plaque development.
- To highlight the role of common dietary polyphenols in cardiovascular health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental studies and clinical trials.
- Analysis of research focusing on the impact of dietary polyphenols on cellular lipid metabolism.
- Examination of studies investigating polyphenol effects on vascular and endothelial function, haemostasis, and platelet aggregation.
Main Results:
- Polyphenols demonstrate significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Evidence suggests polyphenols regulate cellular lipid metabolism, impacting cholesterol levels and transport.
- Polyphenols positively modulate vascular and endothelial function, improving blood flow and reducing inflammation.
- Studies indicate polyphenols influence haemostasis and platelet function, inhibiting clot formation and plaque development.
Conclusions:
- Dietary polyphenols possess significant atheroprotective properties.
- Polyphenols combat atherosclerosis through multifaceted mechanisms, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, lipid-regulating, and vascular-protective actions.
- Increased dietary intake of polyphenol-rich foods may be a viable strategy for cardiovascular disease prevention.
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