The Mediterranean Diet (MD) is recognized for promoting longevity and reducing the risk of chronic disease, yet the mechanisms underlying these benefits remain uncharacterized. This review highlights the diverse nutritional and phytoactive constituents of the MD and research exploring its complex network of polyphenols. It discusses data evaluating MD-derived constituents formulated into a dietary supplement capsule developed using a systems and network biology framework. Component selection was based on their actions on enzyme systems involved in senescence-related pathways and health preservation. This review highlights how MD components synergistically modulate pathways central to antioxidant activity, cognitive health, and aging. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry identified phytochemically diverse constituents in capsules (supplied by DailyColors™, Warwickshire, UK and Sebastopol, CA, USA) derived from primary color groups in sixteen Mediterranean plants. These constituents were mapped to bioactive networks targeting enzymes linked to inflammation, metabolic regulation, and cellular senescence. Preclinical studies demonstrated the modulation of mitochondrial and metabolic health markers, with complementary effects on cytokine inhibition and glucose sensitivity. Two clinical studies confirmed broad proteomic and epigenetic effects on pathways governing immunity, skeletal muscle, cognition, and inflammation. Therefore, this review advances a novel perspective that MD polyphenols act through synergistic, multi-pathway interactions that link dietary patterns to coordinated regulation of longevity and healthy aging.
Szlapinski et al. (Sun,) studied this question.