Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms of Flavonoids in Type 2 Diabetes: Bridging Nutraceuticals and Glycemic Control

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and systemic low-grade inflammation. Emerging evidence implicates inflammation as a key player in the onset and progression of T2DM and its complications. Nutraceuticals, particularly flavonoids—a diverse group of plant-derived polyphenols—have gained substantial attention for their anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties. This review explores the molecular and cellular mechanisms through which flavonoids exert anti-inflammatory effects in T2DM. The review highlights key pathways such as NF-κB, JNK, and Nrf2, modulation of cytokine expression, attenuation of oxidative stress, and improvement in insulin signaling. Flavonoids such as quercetin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), hesperidin, kaempferol, and anthocyanins are discussed for their dual role in glycemic regulation and inflammation suppression. Moreover, this review bridges the gap between nutraceutical application and clinical relevance by evaluating human trials, bioavailability challenges, and future directions in functional food development. Overall, flavonoids represent promising agents for integrative management of T2DM, especially in the context of metabolic inflammation. Keywords: Type 2 diabetes, flavonoids, inflammation, nutraceuticals, insulin resistance, glycemic control, NF-κB, cytokines, oxidative stress, Nrf2 pathway.