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Antioxidants
Special Issues
Antioxidant Compounds and Health Benefits of Mediterranean Functional Food
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Antioxidant Compounds and Health Benefits of Mediterranean Functional Food

A special issue of Antioxidants (ISSN 2076-3921). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural and Synthetic Antioxidants".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 July 2026 | Viewed by 13700

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Stefania D'Angelo

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Medical, Movement and Well-Being Sciences (DiSMMeB), University of Naples “Parthenope”, Via Medina 40, 80133 Napoli, Italy
Interests: antioxidants; apoptosis; human biochemistry; Mediterranean diet; nutraceutical; nutrition; oxidative stress; polyphenols; sport performance
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Many of the characteristic components of the traditional Mediterranean diet are known to have positive effects on health and well-being, and can be considered functional foods. Vegetables, fruits and nuts are all rich in phenols, flavonoids, isoflavonoids, phytosterols and bioactive compounds providing health benefits. Olive oil is known for its high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids and is a good source of phytochemicals such as polyphenolic compounds, squalene and α-tocopherol. Olive oil may have health benefits, including the reduction in coronary heart disease risk, the prevention of several types of cancers, and the modification of the immune and inflammatory responses. The polyunsaturated fatty acids found in fish effectively regulate hemostatic factors, protect against cardiac arrhythmias, cancer and hypertension, and play a vital role in the maintenance of neural functions and the prevention of certain psychiatric disorders. Mediterranean functional foods are rich in vitamins, organic acids (such as hydroxycinnamic, hydroxybenzoic, citric and succinic acids), coumarins, terpenoids and flavonoids (including flavanols, flavanones, flavones and anthocyanins). The bioactive compounds present in these dietary items have been extensively studied in recent decades as potential molecules capable of interfering with the pathophysiological mechanisms associated with several diseases. The biological properties of Mediterranean functional foods range from antioxidant and anti-inflammatory to antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic effects.

In this Special Issue, we aim to gather the latest scientific data relating to the health properties of Mediterranean functional foods in order to explore their biological properties (such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, cardio-protective and anti-obesity properties). This Special Issue of Antioxidants welcomes the submission of research articles, review articles, systematic reviews, meta-analysis and communications.

Dr. Stefania D'Angelo
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Antioxidants is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • antioxidants
  • anti-inflammatory
  • anti-obesity
  • functional food
  • human health
  • Mediterranean diet
  • nutraceuticals
  • nutrition
  • oxidative stress
  • phytochemicals
  • polyphenols

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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44 pages, 12324 KB  
Article
Antioxidant Capacity and Polyphenolic Profile of Extractable and Non-Extractable Fractions of Traditional Mediterranean Diet Recipes from Different Regions
by Marta Cuenca-Ortola, Mónica Gandía, Salah Chaji, Fatima Zahrae El Mossaid, Said Ennahli, El Amine Ajal, Stefania Filice, Achraf Ammar, Amparo Gamero and Antonio Cilla
Antioxidants 2026, 15(3), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15030377 - 18 Mar 2026
Viewed by 900
Abstract
The Mediterranean Diet (MD) is recognized for its nutritional quality, health-promoting properties, and richness in bioactive compounds, yet studies analyzing complete traditional recipes considering both extractable and non-extractable fractions are limited. This study characterized the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and phenolic profile of [...] Read more.
The Mediterranean Diet (MD) is recognized for its nutritional quality, health-promoting properties, and richness in bioactive compounds, yet studies analyzing complete traditional recipes considering both extractable and non-extractable fractions are limited. This study characterized the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and phenolic profile of 56 traditional MD recipes from eight countries, grouped into European Mediterranean (France, Italy, and Spain), African Mediterranean (Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco), and non-Mediterranean European (Luxembourg and Germany) regions. Samples were freeze-dried and subjected to aqueous-organic extraction followed by acid hydrolysis. TAC was measured using TEAC, ORAC, and total phenolics (Folin–Ciocalteu, reflecting reducing capacity), while phenolic profiles were analyzed by HPLC-DAD. Relationships between phenolics and TAC were evaluated using linear and mixed-effects models, accounting for country-level heterogeneity. Mediterranean recipes showed higher TAC and greater phenolic diversity than non-Mediterranean recipes, with a predominance of phenolic acids, secoiridoids, and flavonoids, reflecting characteristic olive oil use. In all regions, the non-extractable fraction contributed >80% to TAC, highlighting underestimation by conventional methods and its dominant contribution to dietary antioxidant intake. TEAC was positively associated with extractable phenolics, whereas ORAC reflected country-specific culinary features independently of total phenolic content. These findings underscore the significant bioactive potential of traditional MD recipes, which can be considered functional foods, and the importance of comprehensive evaluations of both extractable and non-extractable fractions for nutritional research and dietary interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Compounds and Health Benefits of Mediterranean Functional Food)
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17 pages, 2507 KB  
Article
Annurca Apple By-Products at Different Ripening Stages Inhibit AGE Formation and Protect Against AGE-Induced Cytotoxicity Through Antioxidant Activity
by Maria Liccardo, Pasquale Perrone, Shana Perrella, Ivana Sirangelo, Stefania D’Angelo and Clara Iannuzzi
Antioxidants 2026, 15(2), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15020200 - 3 Feb 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 887
Abstract
Annurca apple extract is gaining growing attention for its beneficial properties, particularly its outstanding antioxidant activity. Using a combination of biophysical, cell, and molecular biology techniques, this study investigates the sustainable valorization of Annurca apple by-products at different ripening stages and their role [...] Read more.
Annurca apple extract is gaining growing attention for its beneficial properties, particularly its outstanding antioxidant activity. Using a combination of biophysical, cell, and molecular biology techniques, this study investigates the sustainable valorization of Annurca apple by-products at different ripening stages and their role in the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), as well as in protection against AGE-related cytotoxicity. AGEs are a class of compounds formed by non-enzymatic reactions between reducing sugars and proteins, lipids, or nucleic acids. They can be produced endogenously or ingested through dietary sources and tobacco smoke. AGEs accumulate in nearly all mammalian tissues and are linked to various health issues, such as diabetes and its related complications, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Our data show that Annurca apple by-products at different ripening stages differentially counteract AGEs’ formation by inhibiting protein glycation and protect against AGE-induced cytotoxicity in endothelial cells. In particular, the extracts reduce AGE-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, thereby inhibiting MAPK signaling pathways and caspase-3 activation. Moreover, ripening significantly enhances the concentration of bioactive compounds and the extent of cellular protection. This study highlights new beneficial properties of Annurca apple extracts and suggests that adopting nutritional interventions may support health and potentially reduce the risk of complications associated with AGE accumulation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Compounds and Health Benefits of Mediterranean Functional Food)
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25 pages, 1544 KB  
Article
Innovative Plant-Based Nutraceuticals: Enhancing Iron Bioavailability to Address Iron Deficiency Anaemia
by Nemanja Živanović, Vesna Mijatović Jovin, Bojana Andrejić Višnjić, Diandra Pintać Šarac, Danica Ćujić, Nataša Simin and Marija Lesjak
Antioxidants 2025, 14(11), 1335; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14111335 - 5 Nov 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4244
Abstract
Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) affects 25% of the global population, with detrimental effects on the health of women and children. Treatments with iron supplements offer temporary relief but often yield adverse effects, hindering patient adherence. Additionally, IDA is associated with oxidative stress, which [...] Read more.
Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) affects 25% of the global population, with detrimental effects on the health of women and children. Treatments with iron supplements offer temporary relief but often yield adverse effects, hindering patient adherence. Additionally, IDA is associated with oxidative stress, which becomes significantly exacerbated during iron supplementation. Our study aimed to address this challenge by developing a plant-based nutritional formula rich in bioavailable iron and antioxidants devoid of adverse effects. Chemical analysis of edible plants, focused on the content of iron and iron absorption inhibitors, guided formula development. In vivo studies on rats with IDA evaluated iron bioavailability from the formulated plant-based nutraceuticals. Results of animal studies showed significant improvements in IDA-associated blood parameters after 28 days of oral administration of the nutraceuticals. Additionally, the nutraceuticals did not impede the benefits of iron supplementation. These findings strongly indicate that plant-based nutraceuticals can serve as an effective source of bioavailable iron, potentially improving treatment adherence and at the same time aligning with ongoing WHO and UNICEF initiatives to enhance IDA management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Compounds and Health Benefits of Mediterranean Functional Food)
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14 pages, 1061 KB  
Article
Obesity and Skin Carotenoid Score in Children from Center–Southern Italian Regions
by Giuseppina Augimeri, Giovanna Caparello, Fabrizio Ceraudo, Francesca Meringolo, Ludovica Mazzitelli, Maria Vittoria Iovino, Giuseppe Morino and Daniela Bonofiglio
Antioxidants 2025, 14(4), 448; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14040448 - 8 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1401
Abstract
Childhood obesity represents a public concern worldwide. Evidence indicates that fruits and vegetables (FV) consumed as part of the daily diet reduce the global burden of obesity. Indeed, FV are rich in bioactive compounds, including carotenoids, which exert health benefits as very potent [...] Read more.
Childhood obesity represents a public concern worldwide. Evidence indicates that fruits and vegetables (FV) consumed as part of the daily diet reduce the global burden of obesity. Indeed, FV are rich in bioactive compounds, including carotenoids, which exert health benefits as very potent natural antioxidants. Here, we compared the anthropometric characteristics and the skin carotenoid content between two schoolchildren populations from Southern and Central Italy to evaluate their dietary habits. A sample of 121 and 124 schoolchildren from primary schools in Central and Southern Italy, respectively, was recruited. All participants underwent anthropometric measurements and assessment of the adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MD) by the KIDMED questionnaire and the skin carotenoid score by Veggie Meter®. The mean body mass index (BMI) was significantly lower in participants from Central Italy than in those from Southern Italy. A significantly higher percentage of overweight and obesity was found in the overall sample from Southern than in Central Italy. The adherence to the MD was in the average range for both populations, with no gender-related differences. The carotenoid score was higher and negatively correlated with BMI in the schoolchildren from Central Italy. In multiple regression analyses, skin carotenoids were positively associated with the consumption of fruit in the entire sample. This study suggests the importance of increasing FV intake, particularly in Southern Italy, as a strategy for preventingof obesity during the whole lifespan. Further studies are essential to better understand the influence of skin carotenoids on different variables and their potential role as indicators of health status in children. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Compounds and Health Benefits of Mediterranean Functional Food)
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21 pages, 1799 KB  
Article
Mediterranean Diet and Olive Oil Redox Interactions on Lactate Dehydrogenase Mediated by Gut Oscillibacter in Patients with Long-COVID-19 Syndrome
by Amanda Cuevas-Sierra, Victor de la O, Andrea Higuera-Gómez, Lourdes Chero-Sandoval, Begoña de Cuevillas, María Martínez-Urbistondo, Victor Moreno-Torres, Ilduara Pintos-Pascual, Raquel Castejón and J. Alfredo Martínez
Antioxidants 2024, 13(11), 1358; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox13111358 - 6 Nov 2024
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3112
Abstract
Chronic viral inflammation is associated with oxidative stress and changes in gut microbiota. The Mediterranean diet (MD), with recognized anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, modulates gut microorganisms, specifically on the interaction between extra virgin olive oil, a key component of the MD with well-documented [...] Read more.
Chronic viral inflammation is associated with oxidative stress and changes in gut microbiota. The Mediterranean diet (MD), with recognized anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, modulates gut microorganisms, specifically on the interaction between extra virgin olive oil, a key component of the MD with well-documented antioxidant effects. This study investigated the influence of adherence to MD and antioxidant-rich foods (extra virgin olive oil) on biochemical, inflammatory, and microbiota profiles in patients with chronic inflammation defined as a prolonged inflammatory response due to immune dysregulation following the acute phase of the viral infection. Participants were classified into low (n = 54) and high (n = 134) MD adherence groups (cut-off of 7 points based on previous studies utilizing the same threshold in the assessment of MD adherence). Gut microbiota was sequenced using the 16S technique, and the adherence to MD was assessed using a validated questionnaire for a Spanish population. High adherence to the MD was linked to significant improvements in inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, including reductions in LDL-cholesterol, glucose, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, an indicative of redox balance, as well as a significant higher consumption of antioxidant foods. Moreover, gut microbiota analysis revealed distinct compositional shifts and a lower abundance of the Oscillibacter genus in the high adherence group. Notably, a significant interaction was observed between MD adherence and extra virgin olive oil consumption, with Oscillibacter abundance influencing LDH levels, suggesting that the MD antioxidant properties may modulate inflammation through gut microbiota-mediated mechanisms. These findings provide new evidence that adherence to the Mediterranean diet can reduce inflammatory markers in patients with long-COVID-19, a population that has not been extensively studied, while also highlighting the potential role of the bacterial genus Oscillibacter in modulating this effect. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Compounds and Health Benefits of Mediterranean Functional Food)
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Review

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25 pages, 615 KB  
Review
Antioxidants and Exercise Performance: Focus on Mediterranean Diet
by Giuseppe Annunziata, Elisabetta Camajani, Martina Galasso, Ludovica Verde, Massimiliano Caprio, Giovanna Muscogiuri, Antonio Paoli and Luigi Barrea
Antioxidants 2026, 15(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15010010 - 21 Dec 2025
Viewed by 2009
Abstract
Several antioxidants play an important role in improving athletic performance. Increased inflammation and oxidative stress during physical performance result in the production of free radicals, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to fatigue, muscle damage, and impaired performance. However, moderate and transient [...] Read more.
Several antioxidants play an important role in improving athletic performance. Increased inflammation and oxidative stress during physical performance result in the production of free radicals, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), which leads to fatigue, muscle damage, and impaired performance. However, moderate and transient increases in ROS are physiologically essential, acting as signaling mediators that trigger adaptive cellular responses. Despite their harmful effects on athletic performance, ROS may also enhance physical protection by acting as signaling molecules against increased physical stress. Healthy dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet (MD) may contribute to decrease oxidative stress thanks to its content in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, legumes, and herbs/spices. Indeed, the beneficial effects of the MD can be attributed not only to its antioxidant properties but also to its well-documented anti-inflammatory effects, lipid-modulating actions, immune-supportive functions, and modulation of gut microbiota composition, which collectively influence metabolic and physiological resilience. The MD also plays a key role in competitive sport and training. In addition, several researchers have reported that the MD is essential for reducing risk of injury and illness, recovering and adapting between bouts of activity, and enhancing performance. In this context, following the key principles of an MD could also represent a useful framework for good dietary in competitive athletes. In this narrative review, we discuss the potential effects of antioxidants in sport and the impact of individual foods or compounds of the MD on oxidative stress and exercise performance in competitive athletes and physically active individuals. The potential modifications which could be made to the MD will be highlighted to maximize health and performance effects, in accordance with contemporary sports nutrition practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Compounds and Health Benefits of Mediterranean Functional Food)
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