Quercetin, the "Scavenger Chemical"

Quercetin belongs to a group of plant compounds called flavonoids. This compound is a potent antioxidant that protects the cells in the body from free radical damage. The way it works is by neutralizing free radicals and preventing them from damaging cells and tissues. It also helps reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules. That’s amazing! This compound also helps lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function. In the area of brain health, quercetin protect brain cells from damage and improve cognitive function. In the area of cancer, studies have shown the anti-cancer properties of quercetin. This bioflavonoid is a true powerhouse exhibiting anticancer activity by inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, promoting apoptosis, which is programmed cell death, and reducing metastasis, the proliferation of cancer. Quercetin also has anti-angiogenic effects, meaning, it can inhibit the formation of new blood vessels which cancer cells need to grow and spread. Wow! this is astounding! There is still more, though. There is good news for athletics, body builders, and those that exercise. Quercetin reduces muscle damage from intense exercise by boosting glutathione levels, strengthening cell membranes, and lowering unstable molecules that damage cells. It also increases levels of certain growth factors that are important for muscle repair and rebuilding after exercise-induced muscle injury.

You may be wondering by now where to get this pill or supplement and how to take it…well, I’m anxious to tell you where to find it and how to take it. You can find this wonderful compound and enjoy its benefits by eating the following foods rich in quercetin: Onions, apples, broccoli, berries, tomatoes, kale, buckwheat, parsley, sage, nuts (especially almonds and pistachios), seeds (especially sunflower and pumpkin seeds). Eat abundantly and unapologetically.

Food for Thought: A time-tested formula for success is relying on God for empowerment and doing the work. It has been said that there are no shortcuts to any place worth going, and that applies to your physical health, too. There are simply no shortcuts to a healthy lifestyle. Life is a gift from God and health must be earned. We earn good health by cultivating healthy habits.