Reproductive Hormone Imbalance in Metabolic Syndrome: The Intersection of Prolactin, Fertility Hormones, and Nutraceutical Extracts

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a constellation of interconnected risk factors including insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and central obesity, exerts profound effects on reproductive hormone homeostasis. Disruptions in metabolic pathways not only lead to cardiovascular and endocrine complications but also significantly alter the regulatory axes of reproductive hormones, particularly prolactin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone, and estrogen. These hormonal disturbances contribute to infertility, sexual dysfunction, and menstrual irregularities. Recent evidence highlights the potential role of nutraceutical extracts in ameliorating both metabolic and reproductive dysregulations by targeting oxidative stress, inflammation, and endocrine imbalances. This review elucidates the intricate links between metabolic syndrome, prolactin dysregulation, and fertility hormones and critically explores how plant-derived bioactives may offer therapeutic interventions. Emerging trends, mechanistic insights, and future research directions for integrating nutraceutical strategies into metabolic and reproductive health management are also discussed. Keywords: Metabolic Syndrome, Prolactin, Fertility Hormones, Nutraceutical Extracts, Reproductive Dysfunction