How Do Quercetin and Vitamin C Protect Us?

These days, everyone seems to be under the weather. You might notice that wherever you go - whether it's work, school, or public places - there are many people feeling unwell. So how can we stay healthy in this situation? The answer lies in boosting our own immunity.

When discussing immune system enhancement and respiratory infection prevention, two nutrients that are often mentioned together are Quercetin and Vitamin C. Both have properties that help prevent and alleviate respiratory infection symptoms. But what exactly are these two substances?

Today, NOWFOODSTHAILAND will introduce you to Quercetin and Vitamin C - what they are, what they can do, and how they can help keep us healthy.

What is Quercetin? 

Quercetin is a flavonoid compound found in many vegetables and fruits, such as onions, apples, berries, and green tea. It has excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly for upper respiratory tract care.

According to research by Kumar et al. in 2017, Quercetin has various properties, including antioxidant effects, reducing inflammation, supporting the nervous system, preventing viral infections, and effectively reducing respiratory tract inflammation.

Vitamin C 

Vitamin C is a household vitamin that everyone has known since childhood. It has immune-boosting properties and helps fight various inflammations in the body. It's mainly found in citrus fruits and other sour fruits.

How Quercetin and Vitamin C Work Together

Immune System Enhancement 

Quercetin works with Vitamin C to stimulate white blood cell activity, improving the body's ability to fight viruses and bacteria, thus helping our body combat various pathogens effectively.

Reducing Respiratory Tract Inflammation 

Quercetin and Vitamin C help reduce inflammatory mediators and relieve nasal congestion and runny nose. They can also help reduce throat irritation.

Antioxidant Properties 

Both Quercetin and Vitamin C have antioxidant properties that can protect cells from damage, slow cellular degradation, and promote tissue repair.

Anti pm 2.5 Properties

Quercetin and Vitamin C, according to research data, can help reduce inflammation caused by prolonged exposure to pm 2.5 .

Where Can We Find Quercetin and Vitamin C? 

Foods high in Quercetin include red onions, apples, red grapes, green tea, and kale. Vitamin C sources include oranges, Indian gooseberry, bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries.

These two important immune system supporters, Quercetin and Vitamin C, are highly beneficial nutrients for preventing and alleviating respiratory infection symptoms.

Regular consumption of foods rich in both substances will help strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of illness. However, if we need extra support, dietary supplements containing Quercetin and Vitamin C are another good option for effectively maintaining our health.

References

• R. Kumar, S. Vijayalakshmi, and S. Nadanasabapathi.(2017) Health Benefits of Quercetin. Defence Life Science Journal, Vol. 2, No. 2

• National Institutes of Health. (2021). Vitamin C - Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.