Nutritional Interventions in Neurological Pathologies: Targeting Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

Neurological pathologies encompass various disorders affecting the central and peripheral nervous systems, arising from structural, biochemical, or electrical abnormalities in the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves. These pathologies manifest through diverse symptoms, including numbness, cognitive impairment, impaired motor coordination, seizures, and altered states of consciousness. According to the World Health Organization, neurological disorders affect individuals across all age groups and geographical regions, with nearly one billion people currently impacted globally. The etiology of neurological pathologies is evidently multifactorial, encompassing genetic mutations, disruptions in cellular systems and pathways that lead to neuronal disturbances, and various environmental factors that may accelerate disease progression. This review focuses on how inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to developing neurological disorders, with an overview of potential nutritional interventions. First, we define and describe the concept of neurological pathology and emphasize the critical role of animal models in advancing research in this field. Subsequently, we discuss oxidative stress and inflammation, their impacts on neuronal cells, and evidence-based nutritional strategies that may mitigate these effects. The primary objective is to underscore the potential of dietary approaches in reducing the risk of neurological disorders by targeting key mechanisms such as oxidative stress and inflammation. We propose that a carefully designed nutritional regimen can enhance the balance between cellular damage and repair, thereby decreasing the likelihood of irreversible neuronal damage, extending lifespan and especially healthspan, and improving the overall quality of life.