# Impact of the flavonoid-induced intestinal microbiota modulation on global energy metabolism: implication for obesity

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how flavonoids and gut microbes interact to influence energy metabolism, potentially offering new ways to fight obesity and related diseases.

## Contribution

The paper novelly emphasizes the bidirectional interaction between flavonoids and intestinal microbiota in regulating energy metabolism.

## Key findings

- Flavonoids modulate intestinal microbiota, which in turn affects energy homeostasis in key tissues.
- The interplay between flavonoids and gut microbes may help combat metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes.
- Understanding these interactions could lead to better dietary strategies for metabolic health.

## Abstract

Evidence from the literature clearly demonstrates the beneficial effects of flavonoids on energy metabolism. Due to this, they have become important candidates for combating metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes. Intestinal microbiota (IM) has shown similar effects on metabolic regulation, contributing to host health. Several studies have shown concomitant effects on metabolism and intestinal microbial profile in response to flavonoid-based treatments. However, the role of the bidirectional interaction between IM and flavonoids in the metabolic effects of these organic compounds is less well-established. This review discusses the effects of flavonoids on the IM in regulating energy homeostasis in metabolically relevant tissues, including skeletal muscle, liver, adipose tissue, and hypothalamus. The modulation of the gut microbiota by dietary flavonoids and vice versa is also discussed. Understanding the contribution of each actor in this interaction, as well as their mechanisms of action, can help design dietary and nutritional strategies to combat metabolic disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia.