Dietary polyphenols in the prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an auto-inflammatory disease that is associated with oxidative stress and insulin resistance. The increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) or a reduced capacity of the ROS scavenging antioxidants can lead to abnormal changes in intracellular signalling and result in chronic inflammation and insulin resistance. Mediators of oxidative stress and inflammation activate various transcriptional and metabolic pathways that lead to T2DM pathogenesis and its associated complications. Prevention of ROS-induced oxidative stress and inflammation can be an important therapeutic strategy to prevent the onset of T2DM and diabetic complications. A healthy diet is a major lifestyle factor that can greatly influence the incidence and development of T2DM. Polyphenols, the most abundant antioxidants in the diet, have attained considerable interest due to their potential pharmacotherapeutic properties and are believed to promote health and reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases including T2DM. The main focus of this chapter is to provide an overview regarding the dietary polyphenols and their antioxidant properties and possible roles in the prevention and treatment of T2DM and its associated complications.