A fruitful approach to gut health and functionality

Fruits are essential for human health due to their bioactive compounds (BC), including dietary fibers, phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamins. These compounds offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and gut microbiota-modulating properties, improving intestinal health by enhancing peristalsis, reducing constipation, and strengthening the gut barrier. Polyphenols help prevent oxidative stress, chronic diseases, and gut dysbiosis, while prebiotic fibers and short-chain fatty acids support microbial diversity and immune function. Specific fruits, such as mango, kiwi, berries, and avocado, aid in inflammatory bowel disease management by reducing inflammation, promoting tissue repair, and improving microbiome composition. Fruits also alleviate constipation by retaining stool moisture and enhancing motility. Their role in gut integrity includes modulating microbiota, enhancing tight junction proteins, and reducing oxidative stress. Overall, fruits provide diverse benefits for gastrointestinal health and chronic disease prevention. • Fruits' bioactive compounds fight chronic diseases and improve gut health. • Fruits support immune response and reduce inflammation in IBD patients. • Fruits ease constipation by boosting gut health and promoting bowel movements. • Fruit intake supports the gut barrier integrity and reduces inflammation.