Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Polyphenols are a diverse group of naturally occurring compounds found in plants, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasoprotective properties. Their use in supporting or treating Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) is primarily justified by preclinical and emerging clinical scientific evidence. Diabetic Retinopathy is characterized by chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and microvascular damage in the retina, all of which are processes that polyphenols can modulate. Laboratory and animal studies have shown that polyphenols such as resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), curcumin, and quercetin can attenuate retinal oxidative stress, inhibit inflammatory cytokine production, and preserve the integrity of the blood-retinal barrier. Some small-scale clinical trials and observational studies have reported improvements in retinal vascular health and reduced progression of DR in patients consuming polyphenol-rich diets or supplements. However, large-scale randomized controlled trials in humans are limited, and most evidence is still at the experimental or early clinical stage. Overall, while there is a plausible scientific rationale and promising early results, the evidence is not yet robust enough for strong recommendations, thus meriting a moderate rating.

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