Recent Developments in Procyanidins on Metabolic Diseases, Their Possible Sources, Pharmacokinetic Profile, and Clinical Outcomes

Procyanidins (PCs) is member of the proanthocyanidins (or condensed tannins) class of flavonoids. They are oligomeric compounds, which can be formed from catechin and epicatechin molecules. PCs are abundant in our diet, including chocolate, apple, grapes, legumes, berries, peanuts, and others. Metabolic diseases (MD) are disorders that negatively alter the normal metabolic process, which can influence the ability of body cells to perform critical biochemical reactions (e.g. distribution of macronutrients such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates). Obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, nonalcohol fatty liver disease, etc. are examples of MD. Thus, this review briefly summarized the rich sources, pharmacokinetic properties, and clinical outcomes of PCs. This comprehensively discussed the potential role of PCs against MD. PCs are abundant in dietary fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and grains. Among all PCs sources, grape seeds, sorghum, chocolate, and apples have high concentrations. Based on available studies, PCs and PCs-rich foods have excellent biological effects against MD, e.g. antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective effects. Among all effects of PCs, antioxidant, anti-obesity, and cardio-protectivity are promising. In conclusion, PCs or PC-rich food are promising bioactive compounds or components for the management of MD. Therefore, PCs or PCs-rich food can be used as potential ingredients for the development of functional foods with more health benefits and high consumer acceptability.