This mini-review discusses the role of polyphenols in human health, focusing on their potential benefits and risks in relation to non-communicable diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. Polyphenols, found abundantly in plants, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may prevent or treat various chronic conditions. However, the review also highlights potential harmful effects, particularly when polyphenols are isolated rather than consumed in their natural food matrix. The review assesses the implications of these findings for public health, policy, and future research directions. It emphasizes the need for increased regulation and guidelines for polyphenol consumption and supplementation to ensure consumer safety and informed decision-making. The review also discusses the impact of food processing on polyphenol bioavailability and the marketing and regulation of polyphenol-containing products. Overall, the review underscores the importance of further research to fully understand the mechanisms and safe levels of polyphenol intake.This mini-review discusses the role of polyphenols in human health, focusing on their potential benefits and risks in relation to non-communicable diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. Polyphenols, found abundantly in plants, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may prevent or treat various chronic conditions. However, the review also highlights potential harmful effects, particularly when polyphenols are isolated rather than consumed in their natural food matrix. The review assesses the implications of these findings for public health, policy, and future research directions. It emphasizes the need for increased regulation and guidelines for polyphenol consumption and supplementation to ensure consumer safety and informed decision-making. The review also discusses the impact of food processing on polyphenol bioavailability and the marketing and regulation of polyphenol-containing products. Overall, the review underscores the importance of further research to fully understand the mechanisms and safe levels of polyphenol intake.