Recent advances in flavonoids benefiting intestinal homeostasis

Homeostatic imbalance in the gut precipitates chronic inflammation both within and beyond the gastrointestinal tract, while barrier dysfunction facilitates the local and persistent activation of immune cells and secreted cytokines, thereby exacerbating inflammatory processes that contribute to the development of malignant diseases. Flavonoids are naturally occurring secondary metabolites in plants that have significant biological activity, including properties such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, antitumor, and immunological boosting. Simultaneously, Flavonoids are characterized by their extensive origins, variety, and low concentration. These qualities do not influence their role in human physiological and pathological processes. Prior studies have demonstrated that flavonoids modulate the gut microbiota, modifying its composition and abundance, hence improving gastrointestinal stability. Moreover, flavonoids modulate glucose and lipid metabolism, thereby enhancing gastrointestinal digestion and food assimilation. The preservation of gut homeostasis relies on both the equilibrium of the intestinal microbiota and the integrity of the intestinal barrier, as well as the regulation of intestinal immunity. In generalizations, Flavonoids exhibit a significant role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. This study investigates the capacity of flavonoids to preserve intestinal homeostasis post-absorption by intestinal cells, thoroughly analyzes the significant roles of flavonoids in the physical, chemical, immune, and biological barriers of the intestine, and proposes potential regulatory functions of flavonoids in sustaining intestinal stability, highlighting their effective application in promoting intestinal health. Advancing Flavonoids from Dietary Ingredients to Evidence-Based Functional Foods, providing a scientific rationale for their use in managing intestinal diseases. • Comprehensive analysis of the absorption and metabolism processes of flavonoids. • A summary of the effects of flavonoids on intestinal barrier maintenance, based on the structure of the intestinal barrier. • A summary of the effects of flavonoids on the intestinal barrier based on clinical studies. • Proposed potential mechanisms of flavonoids for further investigation in the intestinal barrier.