This blog is part of the GLIM immunity blog series.
What do apples and onions have in common? They both contain a powerful compound called quercetin! Quercetin belongs to a class of compounds known as phytochemicals. Phytochemicals contribute to the color, taste and smell of fruits and vegetables, and we are just beginning to understand their role in maintaining our health. Quercetin is thought to improve elements of mental and physical performance by acting as an antioxidant. Antioxidants work together to reduce multiple inflammation pathways in the body, thus relieving associated ailments such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders.
For Cancer
Quercetin blocks the proliferation of cancer cells early in their growth and exhibits an inhibitory effect to prevent cancer cells from growing larger.
For Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases
The molecular makeup of quercetin allows it to “scavenge” out reactive metals ions and other oxidative species. By binding to these reactive species, quercetin can prevent them from damaging DNA and RNA, keeping inflammation low and allowing our cells to replicate properly.
The helpful effects of quercetin accumulate with long-term consumption of quercetin-containing foods. Quercetin also comes in several molecular forms, each with slightly different solubility and bioavailability, so eating a variety of vegetables, fruits, nuts and green and black teas is helpful. Quercetin can also be incorporated through supplementation in a targeted approach to heal a specific ailment.
Great Lakes Integrative Medicine can help you determine if supplementation with this powerful ingredient can contribute to your path of overall best health, so schedule a free introductory call with GLIM today to learn more!