Bioactive compounds as therapeutic modulators of metabolic syndrome: targeting inflammation and gut microbiota regulation

) and enhancing gut barrier integrity via increased expression of tight junction proteins. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) derived from microbial metabolism contribute to systemic anti-inflammatory effects. Clinical studies indicate that polyphenol-rich diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, improve metabolic syndrome parameters by lowering inflammatory markers, enhancing lipid profiles, and improving insulin sensitivity. Despite promising findings, challenges such as poor bioavailability and variability in gut microbiome responses hinder clinical application. Strategies like nanoencapsulation and microbiome-targeted nutrition may optimize bioactive efficacy. Overall, food bioactives represent a promising strategy for metabolic health. Future research should focus on enhancing bioavailability, personalized nutrition, and large-scale clinical trials to establish optimal dosing and long-term benefits.