Is Quercetin One of the Secrets of Longevity?

Inflammation in the blood vessels coupled with other factors increases the probability of plaque formation leading to cardiovascular disease. A study in 2007 found that Quercetin can inhibit cytokines (inflammatory substances in the body) from being produced. Quercetin blocks a cell mediator called NF-kappaB, which is linked to cancer and inflammation [1]. Other studies have found additional anti-inflammatory effects on C-reactive protein, known as a marker for possible cardiovascular disease [2].

The known benefits for cancer, heart disease, immune system, obesity, metabolic syndrome and diabetes alone could help increase longevity by lessening the effect of many diseases. Going beyond this though, some researchers have seen longevity increases in yeast cells and genes in roundworms through the addition of quercetin for longevity [3]. Other studies on other phytochemicals like Resveratrol have shown a lengthening of life span similar to that produced with calorie restriction [4]. According to an article in Life Extension, "Other scientists have found evidence that quercetin may mimic many beneficial biological effects of caloric restriction, which extends life span in animals and possibly in humans" [5].

How to Get Enough Quercetin

As with the Resveratrol in red wine, getting an amount equal to that tested in laboratories with the results mentioned involves consuming a probably uneatable (or undrinkable) quantity. Concentrated supplements are available. Usually recommended amounts of quercetin for longevity supplements are from 50 mg to 500 mg. one to three times a day. The supplement is claimed to be generally safe and tolerated without side effects. However, pregnant or nursing women should talk to their doctor before taking quercetin [6].

References

[1]. Min, YD et al. "Quercetin inhibits expression of inflammatory cytokines through attenuation of NF-kappaB and p38 MAPK in HMC-1 human mast cell line." Inflammation Research 2007 May;56(5):210-5.

[2]. Chun, OK, et al. "Serum reactive protein concentrations are inversely associated with dietary flavonoids intake in U.S. adults." Journal of Nutrition 2008 Apr;138(4):753-60.

[3]. Pietsch, CK, et al. Quercetin mediated lifespan extension in Caernorhabditis elegans is modulated by age-1, daf-2, sek-1 and unc-43. Biogerontolgy November 29, 2008.

[4]. Barger, JL, et al. "Short-term consumption of a resveratrol-containing nutraceutical mixture mimics gene expression of long-term caloric restriction in mouse heart." Experimental Gerontology 2008 Sep;43(9):859-66.

[5]. Goepp, Julius, M.D. "Quercetin: Enhanced antioxidant protection against heart disease, cancer, allergies, and more." Life Extension 2009 April;15(4):31-37.

[6]. "Quercetin." Monograph. Alternative Medicine Review. 1998 Apr;3(2):140-3.