This Incredible Nutrient Helps Combat Allergies and Heart Issues
Looking for a natural remedy that provides relief from allergies and promotes heart health without breaking the bank?
A nutrient present in certain fruits and vegetables has been found to alleviate symptoms of hay fever and other allergies while also protecting the heart from serious health issues. This nutrient is a compelling reason to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet. If you prioritize your health, including foods rich in this natural compound in your daily meals is essential. Continue reading to discover more details. . .
Overview
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Allergy Relief Without Side Effects: Quercetin reduces allergy symptoms like itchy eyes, sneezing, and runny nose by calming histamine-producing cells.
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Heart Protection: It relaxes blood vessels for better circulation and shields the heart from damage. .
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Liver, Brain & Nerve Support: Quercetin protects neurons from oxidative stress, fights Alzheimer’s risk, and supports liver recovery from fatty liver disease.
The natural substance – quercetin – is what’s called a polyphenol. Polyphenols are a class of chemicals found in plants that, due to their unique molecular structure, act as potent antioxidants. Polyphenols are responsible for providing plants and fruits with their distinct flavors, scents, and colors.
Safe, Harmless Way to Tackle Allergies
Emerging research indicates that quercetin can alleviate runny noses and combat sneezing triggered by respiratory allergies like hay fever. A study conducted in Japan revealed that consuming quercetin for five days helped relieve an itchy nose due to allergic reactions.1
Another study in Asia involved individuals with pollen allergies. The results showed that quercetin could prevent tearing and itching of their eyes.2
However, the benefits of quercetin extend beyond allergy relief.
Promotes Heart Health
Studies demonstrate that quercetin acts as a natural vasodilator—relaxing blood vessels to enhance blood flow and support healthy blood pressure, a significant risk factor for heart disease.
Quercetin also reduces inflammation, lowering the production of inflammatory cytokines that can harm arteries. A study at Oregon State University found that quercetin is such a powerful heart helper that it protects the function of your entire cardiovascular system. 4
Research in India shows that quercetin can help protect cells against oxidative stress, which is a leading factor in not only heart trouble, but memory loss, joint pain, and so many discomforts of aging.
Protects Sharp, Clear Memory
Researchers at Cornell suggest that due to its potent antioxidant properties, quercetin is beneficial in safeguarding brain cells and other parts of the nervous system from damage that heightens the risk of memory loss.
Studies at Cornell demonstrate that it can combat oxidative stress in neurons more effectively than other antioxidants like vitamin C.5
Supports Healthy Night Vision
The structures in the eye, part of the nervous system, may benefit from quercetin. Studies on senior citizens' eyes reveal that quercetin and other nutrients could enhance adaptation to low-light conditions. It may also reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, a primary cause of blindness in older individuals.
Research indicates a connection between the time taken for eyes to adjust to low-light conditions and the risk of developing macular degeneration.6
How To Get More Quercetin
To increase your quercetin intake, focus on foods like apples (consume the peel for maximum benefit), onions, berries (especially cranberries and blueberries), peppers, tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, etc.), leafy greens, grapes, and plums.
Another reason to include quercetin-rich foods in your diet is to lower the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a growing concern in developed countries like the United States. Factors contributing to NAFLD include aging, obesity, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and smoking. NAFLD, characterized by fat accumulation in the liver, can lead to serious conditions like cancer, cirrhosis, and liver scarring.
Research conducted in England reveals that as NAFLD progresses, many mitochondria in liver cells become dysfunctional, contributing to liver fat accumulation. However, studies indicate that quercetin can support liver health by safeguarding mitochondria at a cellular level to prevent dysfunction.10
Summary
Quercetin, a potent polyphenol present in numerous fruits and vegetables, offers a wide range of health benefits. Research indicates it alleviates allergy symptoms, shields against heart damage, enhances brain function, and aids in liver detoxification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is quercetin?
Quercetin is a natural antioxidant present in many fruits and vegetables, known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties.How does quercetin help with allergies?
It stabilizes immune cells and reduces histamine release, aiding in alleviating sneezing, itching, and other allergy symptoms.Can quercetin help with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)?
Yes. Studies indicate quercetin can eliminate damaged mitochondria from liver cells and reduce fat accumulation, making it a promising natural remedy for preventing or managing NAFLD.