Modulation of ceramides through nutrition: A new target in obesity and insulin resistance (Narrative Review)

Ceramides (Cer) are signaling sphingolipids that participate in insulin signaling, mitochondrial integrity, and inflammation. In obesity and insulin resistance (IR), Cer biosynthesis is exacerbated, leading to metabolic dysfunction and chronic diseases.

This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on how Cer metabolism can be modulated through dietary components and dietary patterns, with emphasis on lipidomic analyses.

The synthesis and accumulation of Cer are influenced by dietary abundance and quality, such as carbohydrates, fat and phenolic compounds. High-fructose corn syrup and saturated fatty acids promote Cer accumulation and IR, while monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids-abundant in the Mediterranean and Nordic diets-attenuate these effects. Polyphenol-rich foods and caloric restriction may also reduce Cer concentrations and improve metabolic markers. The emerging evidence from lipidomic analyses is expanding our knowledge on the role of diet in Cer modulation.

Nutritional strategies targeting ceramide metabolism represent a promising approach to improve metabolic health. Beyond their therapeutic potential, ceramides also emerge as dynamic lipidomic biomarkers capable of reflecting early metabolic changes and monitoring the efficacy of nutritional interventions.