QUERCETIN. I was asked my thoughts on quercetin as a supplement. I had read a few weeks ago about research on this flavonoid and its potential ability to impair the coronavirus’s ability to bind to cell surface receptors or possibly act as a coronavirus inhibitor, providing support for regulating the body’s inflammation response to the virus. Quercetin is a polyphenol, a plant-derived micronutrient, and is found in many foods, such as leafy vegetables, onions, oregano, broccoli, apples, berries, ginkgo biloba, green tea and red wine. Another well known flavonoid is RESVERATROL, which in addition to being a potent antioxidant, has been shown to impact on longevity in many animal models.
As with many other supplements and even medical treatments, the jury is still out on what works and what doesn’t. In general, however, flavonoids are potent antioxidants and keep inflammation in the body at bay, thus allowing our immune system to focus on more important things like, identifying and killing foreign invaders.
The best source of plant quercetin, as is the case with all phytochemicals, is still fresh fruit and vegetables. Although there are no significant side effects at regular doses (some headaches and GI upset at really high doses), it can interact with some blood pressure medications and antibiotics so be careful and consult your doctor. Any benefit you might glean from the supplement could be counteracted by uncontrolled blood pressure which puts you at greater risk of getting really sick from the virus.
MELATONIN. I forgot to mention this one in my original post. Although it is actually a hormone (it was originally developed as a contraceptive!), the sleep hormone melatonin has also been shown to potentially impact on how the coronavirus binds to cellular receptors, impairing its ability to replicate. It also acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It does not have any side effects however be careful of the dose. 1 mg is plenty. Circulating levels are much lower normally.
Stay safe and be well.
AC 😎✌️🌱❤🐖🏃🏻🧘🏻♂️🌎