The role of polyphenols in gut health and disease prevention

Polyphenols, a diverse class of naturally occurring bioactive compounds, have gained signicant attention for their role in promoting gut health and preventing various diseases. These compounds, abundant in fruits, vegetables, tea, coee, and other plant-based foods, exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inammatory, and antimicrobial properties. A growing body of research suggests that polyphenols modulate gut microbiota composition, enhance short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, and strengthen gut barrier integrity, all contributing to improved digestive health and systemic well-being. Additionally, polyphenols inuence metabolic pathways that impact obesity, inammatory bowel diseases (IBD), cardiovascular conditions, and mental health through the gut-brain axis. Despite their promising health benets, challenges such as bioavailability and individual variations in microbial metabolism remain areas of ongoing investigation. This review explores the mechanisms by which polyphenols interact with the gut microbiome, their implications for disease prevention, and future directions in research and dietary applications.