Therapeutic Potentials of Phytochemicals in the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis: Results from Animal Model Interventional Studies

Abstract

The use of phytochemicals as a dietary therapy for colitis has not yet gained sufficient momentum to be widely adopted as a validated therapeutic approach, primarily due to a lack of robust scientific evidence supporting their efficacy. This review aims to investigate, discuss, and evaluate interventional studies conducted on animal models that utilize phytochemicals as a therapeutic intervention for colitis. By doing so, it seeks to enhance our understanding of their mechanisms of action and contribute to the growing body of scientific knowledge, ultimately aiding in the formulation of evidence-based nutritional guidelines for patients with colitis. An extensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed and Web of Science, with a particular focus on the most recent studies published between 2020 and 2024. The search prioritized in vitro and in vivo studies on animal models that explore the mechanisms through which dietary interventions employing phytochemicals alleviate colitis. The findings reveal that various categories of phytochemicals in general and the sub polyphenols category are effective in mitigating colitis through multiple pathways. Notably, studies investigating combinations of phytochemicals have demonstrated greater therapeutic potential, suggesting possible synergistic effects. However, further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms underlying these synergistic interactions. While the majority of interventional studies have utilized animal models, there is a critical need for human clinical trials to validate these findings. Such studies are essential to support the development of reliable nutritional guidelines and to translate preclinical findings into practical dietary recommendations for patients with colitis.

Keywords: Colitis; IBD; phytochemicals; polyphenols.