Polyphenols as bioactive food components in relation to autism spectrum disorders: An overview of the literature

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) known as a set of behavioral and neurocognitive problems that are identified by challenges in difficulties interacting and communicating with others, as well as heightened repetitive and/or restrictive behaviors. Elevated immune reaction and enhancements in pro-inflammatory cytokines have been discovered in the brains of those who have ASD. A recent article associated autism with abnormalities in mitochondrial respiratory control. Based on various studies, mitochondrial dysfunction is caused by oxidative stress, inadequate nutrition, insufficiency of vitamins, compromised immune system, contact with harmful environmental substances, and modified calcium signaling. Polyphenols found in our diet are active compounds that have the potential to prevent and treat various chronic illnesses including, neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental problems. This is mainly due to their ability to regulate crucial pathways that cause inflammation and oxidation in the body. The application of polyphenols may result in a reduction of neuroinflammation, facilitating an improvement in the manifestations of ASD. This review focused on the preclinical and clinical studies that documented the beneficial impacts of diet related for the modulation of ASD.