# Dysglycemia and Cardiometabolic Risk: Pathophysiological Rationale and the Emerging Role of Nutraceuticals in Integrated Prevention

## TL;DR

Dysglycemia is a key early stage of cardiometabolic disease, and nutraceuticals may help prevent its progression by targeting metabolic and inflammatory pathways.

## Contribution

The paper introduces nutraceuticals as a novel integrative approach for managing dysglycemia before pharmacological treatment is needed.

## Key findings

- Nutraceuticals can target impaired insulin sensitivity, oxidative stress, and inflammation in dysglycemia.
- Phytocomplexes from plants like Mangifera indica and Malus domestica improve glycemic control and endothelial function.
- Combining nutraceuticals with lifestyle changes may delay progression to type 2 diabetes.

## Abstract

Dysglycemia represents an early and progressive stage of cardiometabolic disease, characterized by IR, metabolic inflammation, and increased cardiovascular risk. Its high prevalence and largely asymptomatic course often lead to diagnostic and therapeutic inertia, resulting in missed opportunities for early intervention. Recognizing dysglycemia as a disease continuum rather than a transitional condition supports the need for anticipatory and integrated preventive strategies. Within this framework, nutraceuticals are emerging as valuable supportive tools in the management of dysglycemia, particularly in individuals with increased metabolic risk who are not yet candidates for pharmacological therapy. Nutraceutical compounds can target key pathophysiological mechanisms underlying dysglycemia, including impaired insulin sensitivity, oxidative stress, chronic low-grade inflammation, and altered postprandial glucose metabolism. Clinical evidence supports the use of selected micronutrients, polyphenols, and standardized plant extracts in improving fasting and postprandial glycemic control. Phytocomplexes derived from plants such as Mangifera indica, Momordica charantia, and Malus domestica exert complementary and multitarget actions, including modulation of carbohydrate absorption, activation of AMPK-related pathways, enhancement of peripheral glucose uptake, stimulation of incretin secretion, and improvement of endothelial function. When integrated with lifestyle and dietary interventions, nutraceuticals may reduce glycemic variability, improve metabolic resilience, and delay progression toward type 2 diabetes. Overall, nutraceuticals represent a rational bridge between lifestyle measures and pharmacological treatment in the personalized management of dysglycemia.