Proanthocyanidins isolated from lotus seed skin mitigate glycolipid metabolism disorder through the p38/Nrf2/NF-κB signaling pathway

• PLS from lotus seed skin reduces body weight and improves glucose and lipid metabolism in high-fat diet mice. • PLS activates the p38/Nrf2 signaling pathway and inhibits NF-κB, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. • PLS suppresses six proinflammatory cytokines, offering a potential dietary strategy for metabolic syndrome. • The study highlights the high-value utilization of lotus seed skin by-products for functional food development.