On July 30, 2025, Professor Maria Daglia from the University of Naples Federico II, Italy, was invited to deliver an academic lecture titled “The Key Role of Dietary Supplements in Maintaining Gastrointestinal Function” at the School of Food and Biological Engineering, held in Wenhua Building.

Professor Daglia, a renowned expert in food science and human nutrition, has long been engaged in the study of bioactive plant compounds and their health-promoting properties. In her lecture, she presented a comprehensive overview of how plant-based dietary supplements contribute to the prevention and regulation of gastrointestinal disorders. Professor Daglia highlighted several key botanical sources, such as Malva sylvestris L. (common mallow) and sea buckthorn (Elaeagnus rhamnoides). M. sylvestris, used as food since 3000 B.C., possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help maintain tissue integrity and demonstrate anti-ulcer effects. Sea buckthorn, rich in flavonoids, carotenoids, phenolic acids, vitamins C and E, and essential fatty acids, exhibits strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mucosal-protective activities. She also discussed the therapeutic potential of tannins, which are known for their astringent effects and are commonly extracted from high-tannin plants. These compounds have proven effective in treating acute diarrhea and, according to recent studies, may also be beneficial in managing constipation. In conclusion, Professor Daglia emphasized that plant-based dietary supplements represent a promising natural strategy for preventing and treating gastrointestinal disorders, offering safe and effective support for maintaining digestive health.

The lecture provided valuable insights into the functional roles of plant-derived compounds and sparked great interest among faculty and students. The event also fostered further dialogue and collaboration, strengthening the school’s international academic connections. (School of Food and Biological Engineering)