Quercetin UK: Uses, Precautions, and Benefits
Quercetin in the UK and elsewhere is among the few natural supplements currently in the public eye for its efficacy in boosting the immune system. The others being Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Zinc. Our body can't make Quercetin. Thankfully, it's readily available from our everyday food. Chances are you've been enjoying its benefits without even knowing it. Who hasn't had onions and tomatoes in their diet recently? These veggies and the ones below are the top sources of Quercetin.
Quercetin is a fat-soluble flavonol, a derivative from a group of plant compounds called flavonoids. Like its family, Quercetin acts as an antioxidant that scavenges free radicals. These molecules with unpaired electrons wreak havoc in our system by pulling electrons away from other molecules. If unchecked, this can harm cells and DNA. Quercetin rescues our system by being the "willing pair" to their sole electrons. Aside from averting damage, Quercetin reduces inflammation. It may be the body's innate protective and healing response, but chronic inflammation can be toxic. It causes oxidative stress and damage, the leading cause of chronic illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders.
To enjoy the protective benefits of this antioxidant, remember, colour defines richness. Darker or brighter hues mean a higher concentration of Quercetin. Fun fact, Quercetin is the most common flavonol. It's abundant in colourful fruits and vegetables because it's a pigment found in the outer layer of plants. Quercetin thrives with sunlight. Thus, plants that receive more sun exposure have more Quercetin. It's important to note that the potency of Quercetin diminishes with extreme heat exposure, such as in frying and boiling. If you want the pure undegraded form, eat your veggies and fruits as is - unpeeled and raw, as much as possible.
QUERCETIN USES AND BENEFITS
Naturopathic and medical practitioners believe in Quercetin's immune-boosting power. Internal medicine research points to Quercetin's role as a prebiotic. Yes, the good bacteria in our gut love Quercetin too. We all know that a healthy microbiome is crucial to our body's immune defence. Quercetin is also used in conjunction with Vitamin C or Ascorbic Acid to reduce the effects of inflammation. Together, they can efficiently tame or reduce the activity of mast cells that secrete histamine. Quercetin and Vitamin C are also known for their synergistic antiviral action. Vitamin C recycles Quercetin. With its extended life, Quercetin, in turn, slows down the release or breakdown of Vitamin C. This enables the body to utilize Vitamin C efficiently. If that's not enough, fat-soluble Quercetin shuttles the benefits of water-soluble Vitamin C to lipid membranes. And, this is where we pause in awe of a God-wonder. Quercetin also plays a vital role in mitigating bacterial and viral infection. It serves as a vehicle to deliver the bacterial and viral busting powers of Zinc into cells. Thus, stopping these pathogens from replicating.
The body needs at least 500 to 1,000 milligrams of Quercetin daily to leverage its therapeutic properties to achieve strong immunity. A healthy amount (loads) of fruits and vegetables in one's diet could already supply as much as 200 to 500 milligrams. Should you opt to supplement, looking for quality Quercetin in the UK is easy. Just focus on trusted brands, and you'll never go wrong.
Since we're on the subject of supplementing, let us introduce you to a superior Quercetin supplement, Quercetin Complex with Ester C Plus. Remember the God-wonder above? Well, this proprietary formula of Quercetin applies the same complementary action to make Quercetin, Vitamin C, and others in the mix more effective. The players here are even better. Take a closer look:
- Ester C – a PH neutral or non-acidic Vitamin C that's gentle on the stomach.
- Quercetin – a potent antioxidant. Need we say more?
- Acerola berry – derived from Acerola cherry plant-bearing berries. It's a natural medicine for coughs, colds, liver diseases, dysentery, and diarrhoea.
- Citrus bioflavonoids – it slows down the breakdown of Vitamin C to make it more effective.
- Bromelain – a mixture of proteinases and proteases enzymes derived from pineapple stem and fruit. It's anti-inflammatory and effectively eases sinusitis and stomach issues, aids in food digestion, aside from helping the body absorb Quercetin more effectively.
- Rose Hips – rich Vitamin C source means more immune-boosting antioxidants in your system.
- Rutin – contains Quercetin and has proven anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties.
Here are some of the proven health benefits of Quercetin:
- Studies show that the flavonol in onions, berries, and apples helps improve heart health and reduce adverse cardiovascular events. Quercetin also promotes arterial health by reducing plaque formation in small blood vessels. It also helps in lowering blood pressure and bad cholesterol.
- As a potent antioxidant, specifically in red wine and tea, Quercetin protects cells from oxidative stress. This antioxidant activity has proved beneficial in treating certain cancers and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
- With its anti-inflammatory properties, research has also pointed out the efficacy of Quercetin to ease allergic reactions.
- It is also a powerful natural antibacterial and antiviral medicine. It's known to inhibit bacterial growth in the stomach and intestines, skin, and the respiratory and urinary tracts and fight off viruses such as the H1N1 Influenza A virus and the herpes simplex virus.
PRECAUTIONS
With a well-balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, taking Quercetin as a supplement can be gainful. It is best to consult your doctor before taking any supplements. Minor reactions may occur when taken in high dosage for a long time. It can also possibly interact with other medications.
WHY SOLGAR?
To keep every product to the highest quality, Solgar makes its products in small batches with only the finest ingredients from around the world. Their products are crafted in their manufacturing facility by their people, a rare business practice that speaks volumes about Solgar's passion for excellence and integrity.
Solgar's commitment to quality, health, and wellness put them among the few trusted brands with generations of loyal followings. That's why SOLGAR is synonymous with GOLD STANDARD.