Quercetin is a type of flavonoid antioxidant found in plant foods, including leafy greens, tomatoes, berries, and broccoli. Technically, it is considered a “plant pigment” found in fruits and vegetables which are very rich in nutrients. Considered one of the superfoods list 2021, quercetin plays an important part in fighting free radical damage, the effects of aging and inflammation.
Reduces inflammation
Flavonoids, including quercetin, are important anti-inflammatory because they function as antioxidants, actually fighting the natural “oxidation” process that occurs over time as we age. Quercetin will free your body from free radicals, which negatively impact how cells work, including damaging cell membranes, changing how DNA works, increasing cell mutation, and causing healthy cells to die. Research shows that inflammation is at the root of most diseases, including heart disease, cancer, cognitive decline, some mental disorders, and autoimmune disorders.
Prevent allergies
Quercetin is a natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory, making it effective for naturally reducing the effects of seasonal and food allergies, plus asthma and skin reactions. Histamine is a chemical that is released when the immune system detects an allergy or sensitivity and is responsible for the symptoms we face whenever the body has an allergic reaction. Quercetin can help stabilize the release of histamine from certain immune cells, which results in decreased symptoms such as cough, watery eyes, runny nose, itching, swollen lips or tongue, and indigestion.
The antioxidant effect of quercetin also makes it believed to have anti-cancer properties. Several animal studies and test-tube tests have reported this potential, that quercetin can weaken cancer cells in various organs, such as the lungs, liver, bladder, and colon. Human studies are needed to corroborate the claims of quercetin.
Those are some of the benefits of quercetin which is found in many fruits and vegetables. Therefore, don’t be lazy to eat vegetables and fruit regularly to maintain your health from an early age.