Quercetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid found in many fruits, vegetables, leaves, and grains, has attracted considerable attention for its potential health benefits and healing abilities in both animal and human models.
Dietary Sources and Bioavailability
Quercetin is in foods like berries and apples which are particularly rich sources.
However, its bioavailability is influenced by the form in which it is consumed, this is why we chose fermented quercetin in JointButter®. The fermentation process makes the active ingredients more potent.
How does quercetin work and is it safe for dogs?
A study by Moon, Wang, DiCenzo, & Morris (2008).[1] and Graefe, Derendorf, & Veit (1999).[2] showed that the bioavailability of quercetin in humans is relatively low, suggesting that dietary use or supplementation needs careful consideration to achieve therapeutic effects.
Regarding safety, Harwood et al. (2007) provided a comprehensive review, arguing that quercetin is safe with no evidence of in vivo toxicity or carcinogenic properties..[3] at consumption levels achievable through diet or supplementation.
What Are the Health Benefits of Quercetin?
Anti-inflammatory and Immune Function
The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of Quercetin are well documented. Davis, Murphy, and Carmichael (2009)[4] and Konrad & Nieman (2015)[5] discussed its potential to enhance physical performance and reduce pain by modulating immune function. These benefits are particularly notable in the context of exercise-induced stress, suggesting a role for quercetin in supporting recovery and also reducing susceptibility to respiratory infections.
Quercetin has Antioxidant Properties
The antioxidant properties of quercetin, as reviewed by Young et al (1999)[6]contributes to its protective effects against oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
Anticancer Potential is Promising
Rauf et al. (2018).[7] and Niedzwiecki et al. (2016).[8] explored the anticancer efficacy of quercetin, highlighting its ability to modulate various signaling pathways involved in cancer development. The role of flavonoids in regulating the expression of genes related to cancer cell survival, growth, and metastasis emphasizes its potential as an adjuvant therapy in cancer treatment.
Cardiovascular Health
A study by Jia. (2019).[9] showed protective effects of quercetin against atherosclerosis by influencing markers related to lipid metabolism and cholesterol regulation. These findings suggest that quercetin may be a useful dietary ingredient in preventing cardiovascular diseases.
Is quercetin good for dogs and humans?
Based on available research, quercetin is an attractive ingredient for advanced dietary supplements that provides a wide range of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, immuno-modulatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties.
Sources
- Moon, YJ, Wang, L., DiCenzo, R., & Morris, ME (2008). Quercetin pharmacokinetics in humans. Clinical Trial Biopharm Drug Dispos, 29(4), 205-217. doi: 10.1002/bdd.605.
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Graefe, EU, Derendorf, H., & Veit, M. (1999). Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of the flavonol quercetin.
- Harwood, M., Danielewska-Nikiel, B., Borzelleca, JF, Flamm, GW, Williams, GM, & Lines, TC (2007). A critical review of data related to the safety of quercetin and lack of evidence of in vivo toxicity, including lack of genotoxic/carcinogenic properties. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 45(11), 2179-2205. doi:10.1016/j.fct.2007.05.015
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Davis, JM, Murphy, EA, and Carmichael, MD (2009). Effects of the dietary flavonoid quercetin on performance and health.
- Konrad, M., & Nieman, DC (Year). Evaluation of quercetin as a countermeasure to exercise-induced physiological stress. In Antioxidants in Sports Nutrition (Chapter 10). NIH NLM logo.
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Young, JF, et al. (1999). Effect of fruit juice intake on urinary quercetin excretion and biomarkers of antioxidative status.
- Rauf, A., Imran, M., Khan, IA, Rehman, MU, Gilani, SA, Mehmood, Z., & Mubarak, MS (2018). Anticancer potential of quercetin: A comprehensive review. Review Phytother Res, 32(11), 2109-2130. two: 10.1002/ptr.6155.
- Niedzwiecki, A., Roomi, MW, Kalinovsky, T., & Rath, M. (2016). Anticancer Efficacy of Polyphenols and Their Combinations. Nutrients, 8(9), 552. doi: 10.3390/nu8090552.
- Cao, H., Jia, Q., Shen, D., Yan, L., Chen, C., & Xing, S. (2019). Quercetin has a protective effect on atherosclerosis by enhancing autophagy in ApoE−/− mice. Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, 18(4), 2451–2458. doi:10.3892/etm.2019.7851.
