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Therapeutic and Preventive Potential of Plant-Derived Antioxidant Nutraceuticals

Summary

This comprehensive review explores how compounds found in plants can protect our bodies from harmful damage caused by oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and various diseases. Plant-based foods rich in antioxidants like berries, leafy greens, and olive oil contain special molecules that can help prevent cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. The review highlights that these natural compounds work through multiple beneficial mechanisms beyond just antioxidant activity, making plant-based diets an effective strategy for maintaining health and preventing disease.

Background

Oxidative stress is increasingly linked to the onset of chronic diseases. Plant-derived phytochemicals, which are products of plant secondary metabolism including polysaccharides, unsaturated fatty acids, pigments, and phenolic compounds, have demonstrated significant antioxidant properties. These compounds can be obtained from various plant sources, algae, and other natural organisms.

Objective

To provide an updated comprehensive review of the therapeutic and preventive potential of plant-derived antioxidants and nutraceuticals. The work examines the structural significance of antioxidant phytochemicals and their role in disease prevention through various molecular mechanisms including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, and neuroprotective effects.

Results

The review demonstrates that phytochemicals from diverse sources display multiple bioactive properties beyond antioxidant activity. Key findings show that phenolic compounds, unsaturated fatty acids, carotenoids, and polysaccharides exhibit antioxidant capacities ranging from micromolar to millimolar levels, with significant anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-obesity, and neuroprotective effects in various disease models.

Conclusion

Plant-derived antioxidants and nutraceuticals have considerable potential for therapeutic use and disease prevention, with diverse structural features contributing to multiple beneficial health effects. While these compounds generally display low toxicity, careful consideration of dosage and compound interactions is necessary to optimize their therapeutic applications as functional foods and nutraceutical products.
  • Published in:Foods,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: PMID: 40428528, DOI: 10.3390/foods14101749
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