Research into diet-derived polyphenols—the bioactive compounds found in foods like olive oil, berries, tea, and cocoa—has revealed their significant potential in supporting brain health and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. However, the complex metabolic transformations they undergo, particularly through interactions with the gut microbiota, present ongoing challenges in fully understanding their mechanisms of action. Recent advances highlight the role of the gut–brain axis, where metabolites generated by microbial activity influence neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and cognitive function. Despite this progress, standardization in analytical methods and a clearer grasp of inter-individual responses remain notable gaps in the field.

This Research Topic aims to clarify the connections between dietary polyphenol intake, microbial metabolism, and neuroprotective pathways relevant to brain health across the lifespan. The objective is to gather new data and perspectives that advance knowledge of how polyphenols contribute to cognitive resilience, whether through direct mechanisms such as reducing inflammation or indirect routes involving gut-derived metabolites. Special attention will be given to precision nutrition, metabolic health, and culturally significant dietary patterns like the Mediterranean diet.

The scope of this Research Topic covers basic, translational, and clinical research into the role of polyphenols in the gut–brain axis and neuroprotection, with an emphasis on robust and reproducible methods. Studies should primarily focus on diet, metabolism, and neurocognitive outcomes, alongside approaches to improve analytical workflows and personalized nutrition. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Dietary assessment and exposure biomarkers for polyphenols
• Phenolic food sources relevant to brain health
• Microbiota-mediated metabolism and gut–brain signaling
• Mechanisms of neuroprotection (neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, and synaptic plasticity)
• Standardization in extraction and analytical methodologies
• Precision and personalized nutrition approaches
• Clinical and community interventions across diverse populations

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Diet-Derived Polyphenols, Gut Microbiota, and Neuroprotection in Brain Health