Phenolic human metabolites are formed from the metabolism of phenolic substances, which are organic molecules with a hydroxyl group connected to an aromatic ring. These metabolites serve important roles in a variety of physiological processes and are frequently linked to dietary polyphenol metabolism. Polyphenols are plentiful in fruits, vegetables, tea, and other plant-based meals, and their metabolism produces a wide range of phenolic metabolites that may have health advantages. Flavonoids, a type of polyphenol, are a major source of phenolic metabolites. Flavonoids are extensively metabolized by phase I and phase II enzymes in the liver and gut, producing a variety of phenolic acids and conjugates. For example, quercetin, a widely dispersed flavonoid, is extensively metabolized to produce phenolic metabolites such as quercetin-3-glucuronide, quercetin-3-sulfate, and quercetin-3'-O-methylated derivatives. Another type of phenolic metabolite is formed from the metabolism of lignans, which are found in a variety of plant foods including flaxseeds and sesame seeds.Enterodiol and enterolactone are important phenolic metabolites produced by the microbial metabolism of lignans in the human gut. These metabolites have been investigated for their possible roles in cancer prevention and hormonal balancing. Furthermore, phenolic acids, such as hydroxybenzoic acids and hydroxycinnamic acids, are significant metabolites formed by the degradation of polyphenols like ellagic acid and chlorogenic acid.These phenolic acids can conjugate with glucuronic acid or sulfate, producing water-soluble metabolites that are easily eliminated in urine. The health advantages linked with phenolic human metabolites are numerous, including antioxidant qualities, anti-inflammatory actions, and potential improvements to cardiovascular health. The interactions between dietary polyphenols, gut microbiota, and the consequent phenolic metabolites demonstrate the complexities of the diet-health link. Understanding the production and bioavailability of phenolic human metabolites is critical for determining the mechanisms underpinning polyphenol-rich foods' health-promoting properties.
