Since the COVID-19 global pandemic, more and more people have become concerned with their health. Researches about supplements have surged especially those supplements that could help protect us from viruses. One of those supplements that is gaining attention, is quercetin. Quercetin is an antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties that could help those with heart problems, unregulated blood sugar, and could even help eradicate cancerous cells.
This supplement is also used to help treat heart and blood vessel problems as well as diabetes, arthritis, and bladder infections. But of course, do not try and take this supplement without the advice of your doctor since they are the ones who really knows and understand your health condition.Nevertheless, since there are hefty benefits to taking this supplement, it’s better that you know more about it especially if you are one of those who would benefit from it.
Who else would benefit from taking this supplement?
People who are at risk of Neurodegenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease would benefit a lot from taking quercetin supplement. Since quercetin is known for fighting free radicals, this flavonoid’s antioxidant qualities might aid in combating neurodegenerative diseases that are facilitated by oxidative stress.
Still, doctors do not yet prescribe quercetin to treat existing neurological diseases because there are no conclusive evidences yet and further studies are needed. Although more and more researches are currently being conducted on how effective the supplement is.
If you frequently suffer from allergic rhinitis, quercetin may also be able to help you since it could be a potential antihistamine since it limits the release of histamine from cells. Still, since the studies and researches about this possible antihistamine is still in its early stages, unless specifically advised by your doctor or any trusted healthcare professional, this supplement should not be taken by allergy sufferers to treat their allergies.
What are the side effects?
Quercetin is present in food that we usually eat. It is present in grapes, berries, red apples, citrus fruits, broccoli, nuts, etc. so, the supplements are also considered to be safe. There have been reports of a mild upset stomach but other than that, there are no other documented cases of side effects because of quercetin.
Who should avoid taking this supplement?
As always advised, seek first the approval of your healthcare practitioner before trying any supplements especially if you are already taking medications for underlying health conditions since quercetin might interact with the effects of the medicines that you are taking. It might intensify the effects of blood thinners since it helps prevent blood clots.
Pregnant women should also avoid it during pregnancy just to be safe, although the food sources are completely fine unless advised by their doctors to avoid consuming these food sources.
Quercetin is a supplement that could be taken for overall wellness but should not be the only element in your arsenal when it comes to boosting general immunity. Partner it with seven to nine hours of sleep, foods that strengthen the immune system, exercise, and manage stress and any underlying medical disorders to give your immune system a boost.
