Quercetin and Heart Disease
Quercetin is an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory bioflavonoid, and can be used to treat heart conditions of various kinds. The most general of these is atherosclerosis, caused by the deposition of LDL cholesterol plaques on the artery walls, gradually blocking and hardening them. This condition is caused by the oxidative degradation of the LDL by free radicals, generated by the body’s natural metabolism, and also exposure to strong UV sunlight and pollutants such as tobacco smoke and industrial and traffic fumes.
The strong antioxidant properties of quercetin destroy these free radicals and so prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. There is also a belief among some researchers that a diet high in flavanoids can reduce the amount of LDL cholesterol in the blood, and so further reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. This has to be proved, however, and studies are believed to have used high concentrations of flavanoids to obtain these results.
The anti-inflammatory properties of quercetin are also believed to contribute to cardiac health. Tests have indicated that its inhibition of the lipoxygenase enzyme can help to prevent heart failure caused by a specific type of inflammatory condition initiated by the enzyme. Whether or not all of these claims are true, the evidence does indicate that quercetin has some effect in helping to maintain the health of the cardiovascular system and help prevent premature heart failure.
To give quercetin a try, stop into your local or internet health food store. Always look for name brands of quercetin to ensure purity and quality of the supplement you purchase.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Quercetin is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.
December 18th, 2009