Nanoformulations of polyphenols for prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders

Polyphenols are secondary metabolites formed in plants as a defense mechanism. More than 8000 polyphenols have been established naturally in food, including wine, tea, coffee, cocoa, vegetables, cereals, and fruits. Epidemiological studies advocate that dietary polyphenols beneficially prevent CVD and related metabolic disorders. Antioxidantive property, vasodilation and vascular protection, antiinflammation, antifibrotic, antiapoptotic, and metabolic activities were linked to the mechanistic properties of preventing CVD, type-2 diabetes, and obesity. Based on the observed health benefits of polyphenol, it may act as a potential alternative and additive therapy; and the use of nanotechnology in improving its bioavailability and efficiency will be a promising approach in preventing the noncommunicable diseases. Nanoformulations include liposomal formulations, nanoemulsions, lipid nanocapsules, emulsions, inclusion complexes, gels, and so on. In the chapter, we discuss the various nanotechnological applications to improve the functionalities of polyphenols and their mechanism of action in preventing CVD and related metabolic disorders.