When fun in the sun becomes gloom in the room due to seasonal sensitivities such as sniffles and sneezes, eye irritation and generally feeling worn out, you’re not alone. Many people experience seasonal sensitivities due to an overactive immune response. One natural compound that’s getting attention for its supportive role in immune health is Quercetin. Today, we’re spotlighting Pure Encapsulations Quercetin – a high-quality supplement that may help bring your immune system back into balance during seasonal changes.
What is Quercetin?
Quercetin is a flavonoid – a type of antioxidant found in plant foods like apples, onions, berries, and green tea. It’s known for its natural anti-inflammatory and antihistamine1 properties, which can really help during the hay fever season or when pollen counts soar.
How Quercetin Supports Seasonal Wellness
When your immune system perceives harmless environmental triggers, like pollen or dust, as threats, it may release histamine, leading to watery eyes, sneezing, sinus congestion, and fatigue2. This is where quercetin may support you. Studies suggest that quercetin may help stabilise mast cells, the immune cells that release histamine3. By doing so, it may:
Ease symptoms of seasonal allergies
Reduce inflammation in the airways
Support respiratory comfort
Promote a calmer immune response
Balancing an Overactive Immune Response
Your immune system is your body’s first line of defence, but it needs to stay balanced. An overactive immune system doesn’t just overreact to pollen; it can lead to persistent inflammation. Quercetin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities can help modulate immune function, rather than suppressing it. It can be good for short-term symptom relief and also for long-term immune resilience.
Why Choose Pure Encapsulations Quercetin (250 mg)?
No unnecessary additives: Free from gluten, artificial colours, and preservatives
Clinically researched ingredients: Trusted by health professionals
This product is a good choice for those looking for a clean, effective supplement to support their immune system, especially during allergy season or environmental transitions.
Who Might Benefit?
You may benefit from quercetin supplementation if you:
Experience hay fever or allergic rhinitis
Feel run-down or inflamed during seasonal changes
Want to naturally regulate immune function
Prefer plant-based solutions over antihistamines
Need support for respiratory and sinus health
When and How to Take It
For best results, quercetin is often taken daily throughout allergy season or in the weeks leading up to it. Take 1–2 capsules per day with meals or as directed by your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Quercetin is a strong, natural way to support your immune system, especially when it’s feeling a little too enthusiastic. Whether you’re managing seasonal sniffles or simply want to stay in balance, Pure Encapsulations Quercetin is a clean, trusted option worth considering.
Natural antioxidant
Balances overactive immune responses
Ideal for allergy-prone individuals
If you’d like help choosing the right supplement or creating a personalised immune support plan, we’re here for you.
Always consult your healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.
Antioxidants support the body from oxidative stress. They help the fight against an overabundance of free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to extra sick days. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants can support your immune system, promote skin health, and even reduce the risk of some chronic diseases. But what are antioxidants, and where can we find them in our diets?
Antioxidants, An overview
Antioxidants are substances that help neutralize free radicals, preventing them from causing cellular damage in the body. Free radicals are produced in the body through normal metabolic processes, but external factors such as pollution, smoking, UV radiation, and certain chemicals can increase their production. While free radicals do play a role in immune defence, an overproduction can lead to oxidative stress, which is associated with numerous health issues, including inflammation, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.
There are several types of antioxidants, categorized based on their chemical nature and sources. The two major classes are:
1. Endogenous Antioxidants – These are produced by the body, such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase.
2. Exogenous Antioxidants – These come from the diet, primarily from fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods.
Among the most well-known dietary antioxidants are vitamins (like A, C, and E), minerals (such as selenium), and phytochemicals (like flavonoids, polyphenols, and carotenoids). Each type of antioxidant has unique properties and functions.
Types of Antioxidants and Their Benefits
1. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
One of the most abundant water-soluble antioxidants, vitamin C, is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, protecting skin from oxidative damage, and aiding in collagen production. Vitamin C is also crucial for regenerating other antioxidants like vitamin E. Studies suggest that consuming foods rich in vitamin C can lower the risk of chronic diseases and support the body’s defence system against infections and inflammation.
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidative damage. It’s particularly effective in guarding skin cells against damage caused by UV radiation and environmental toxins. Vitamin E also supports immune function and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Foods Rich in Vitamin E:
– Nuts and seeds (almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts)
– Vegetable oils (sunflower oil, safflower oil)
– Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
– Avocados
3. Beta-Carotene (vitamin A)
Beta-carotene is a type of carotenoid that the body converts into vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant. It plays a critical role in maintaining good vision, skin health, and immune system function. Beta-carotene also helps prevent oxidative damage in cells, reducing the risk of certain cancers and age-related macular degeneration.
Foods Rich in Beta-Carotene:
– Carrots
– Sweet potatoes
– Pumpkins
– Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale)
– Apricots
4. Selenium
Selenium is a trace mineral that works synergistically with other antioxidants like vitamin E to help protect the body from oxidative stress. It is essential for thyroid health and immune function. Selenium deficiency can lead to an increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and cognitive decline.
Foods Rich in Selenium:
– Brazil nuts
– Tuna and other fatty fish
– Chicken and turkey
– Eggs
– Whole grains
5. Flavonoids and Polyphenols
Flavonoids are a diverse group of plant-based antioxidants found in many fruits, vegetables, and beverages. They have strong anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Polyphenols, a type of flavonoid, have been studied for their role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, promoting brain health, and potentially preventing cancer. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation, contributing to improved overall health.
Foods Rich in Flavonoids and Polyphenols:
– Berries (blueberries, blackberries)
– Dark chocolate (with at least 70% cocoa)
– Green tea and black tea
– Red wine
– Apples
6. Lycopene
Lycopene, a carotenoid found in tomatoes and other red-coloured fruits, has been linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer and heart disease. Its antioxidant properties help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation. Interestingly, lycopene is better absorbed by the body when tomatoes are cooked, making tomato-based sauces a great source of this antioxidant.
Foods Rich in Lycopene:
– Tomatoes (especially cooked)
– Watermelon
– Pink grapefruit
– Red peppers
– Papaya
Antioxidants usually taken in supplement form
Quercetin
Quercetin is a flavonoid found in apples, onions, tomatoes, tea, and brassica vegetables. It offers antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-carcinogenic benefits. Quercetin has been studied for promoting mitochondrial biogenesis, stabilizing mast cells, and supporting the gut’s tight junctions.
CoQ10
CoQ10 is concentrated in mitochondria, where it helps produce energy, making it vital for energy-intensive processes like immune function. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and research indicates that it helps reduce oxidative stress caused by intense exercise.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
ALA helps regenerate other antioxidants like vitamins C and E and increases essential antioxidant enzymes like catalase and superoxide dismutase. ALA can cross the blood-brain barrier, reducing neuroinflammation and pro-inflammatory cytokines. It also supports immune modulation and has been studied for its role in preventing SARS-COV-2 entry into cells. ALA is found in foods like broccoli, spinach, red meat, and tomatoes.
Glutathione
Glutathione, the body’s “master antioxidant,” is crucial for immune function and protecting cells from oxidative stress. Synthesized from cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid, glutathione supports mitochondrial function, DNA maintenance, and the immune system, including lymphocyte and NK cell activity. It also regenerates vitamins C and E.
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)
NAC is a precursor to glutathione, boosting its levels and acting as an antiviral, antioxidant agent. It helps protect cells from damage, reduces inflammatory cytokines, and restores natural killer (NK) cells, supporting overall immune health.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a polyphenol found in grapes, red wine, mulberries, and rhubarb. It provides antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-regulating benefits by targeting enzymes involved in eicosanoid production, inhibiting NF-kB, and reducing inflammatory cytokines. Resveratrol also promotes mitochondrial biogenesis and activates sirtuins, proteins associated with metabolism and aging.
Antioxidants and Immune Health
A growing body of evidence suggests that antioxidants can boost immune function. antioxidants, particularly those derived from plant-based sources, play an essential role in supporting immune health by neutralizing free radicals and reducing inflammation. Chronic oxidative stress can impair the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases. By consuming antioxidant-rich foods, you can reduce oxidative stress and help the immune system function more efficiently.
For instance, vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties, helping white blood cells function more effectively and protecting them from oxidative damage. Flavonoids and polyphenols, found in fruits like berries and beverages like green tea, also contribute to a healthy immune response by reducing inflammation and supporting the production of immune cells.
How to Incorporate Antioxidant-Rich Foods into Your Diet
Incorporating foods rich in antioxidants into your daily diet is easier than you might think. Here are a few tips:
1. Eat the Rainbow: Include a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in your meals. The different pigments in plants are often linked to specific antioxidants. For example, orange and yellow fruits are rich in carotenoids like beta-carotene, while dark purple and blue fruits are high in anthocyanins, another type of antioxidant.
2. Swap Snacks: Choose nuts, seeds, and berries as snacks instead of processed foods. Almonds and sunflower seeds provide vitamin E, while blueberries offer a good dose of flavonoids.
3. Cuppa: Green tea is rich in catechins, a type of flavonoid known for its antioxidant effects. Similarly, red wine in moderation can provide polyphenols, particularly resveratrol, which is linked to heart health benefits.
4. Use Antioxidant-Rich Oils: When cooking, use olive oil or avocado oil, both rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants. These oils can protect cells and help fight inflammation.
conclusion
Antioxidants support good health. By eating a variety of antioxidant-rich foods, you can help your body’s defence against oxidative stress, promote immune health, and potentially lower your risk of developing age-related diseases. From vitamin C-rich citrus fruits to selenium-packed Brazil nuts, the key is to diversify your food choices to ensure you’re getting a broad range of antioxidants.
Huang, Z., Liu, Y., Qi, G., Brand, D. and Zheng, S. (2018). Role of Vitamin A in the Immune System. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 7(9), p.258. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm7090258 Manthena, S. (2015).
Effectiveness of CoQ10 Oral Supplements as an Adjunct to Scaling and Root Planing in Improving Periodontal Health. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC RESEARCH. doi:https://doi.org/10.7860/jcdr/2015/13486.6291.
Sinha, R., Sinha, I., Calcagnotto, A., Trushin, N., Haley, J.S., Schell, T.D. and Richie, J.P. (2018). Oral supplementation with liposomal glutathione elevates body stores of glutathione and markers of immune function. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, [online] 72(1), pp.105–111. doi:https://doi.org/10.1038/ejcn.2017.132
Rizwan, M., Rodriguez-Blanco, I., Harbottle, A., Birch-Machin, M.A., Watson, R.E.B. and Rhodes, L.E. (2011). Tomato paste rich in lycopene protects against cutaneous photodamage in humans in vivo: a randomized controlled trial. The British Journal of Dermatology, [online] 164(1), pp.154–162. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2133.2010.10057
In this article, we will explore eight nutrients that can help reduce inflammation.
Inflammation is a natural response of the body to protect itself against harmful stimuli, such as infections, injuries, or toxins.
However, chronic inflammation can lead to various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Diet plays a crucial role in managing inflammation, and there are several nutrients that have been studied for their potential to Reduce Inflammation.
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that has gained significant attention for their ability to Reduce Inflammation. They are found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as in flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. These fatty acids contain two key compounds, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which have been shown to reduce inflammation by suppressing the production of inflammatory molecules called cytokines and prostaglandins (Calder, 2006).
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that omega-3 supplementation reduced inflammatory markers in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, demonstrating its potential as an anti-inflammatory nutrient (Olendzki et al., 2016).
2. Curcumin
Curcumin is the active compound found in turmeric, a spice widely used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in order to Reduce Inflammation. Research suggests that curcumin can inhibit the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes and reduce the expression of genes involved in inflammation (Aggarwal et al., 2007).
A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Medicinal Food concluded that curcumin supplementation significantly reduced markers of inflammation, making it a promising dietary component for managing inflammation-related conditions (Gan et al., 2018).
3. Green Tea Polyphenols
Green tea is rich in polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been recognized for its anti-inflammatory effects. EGCG can modulate the inflammatory response by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules and promoting the activity of anti-inflammatory proteins (Singh et al., 2011).
A study published in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology found that EGCG reduced inflammation and tissue damage in experimental models of inflammatory diseases, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic nutrient (Ahmed et al., 2018).
4. Boswellia
Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is a resin extracted from the Boswellia tree. It has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. The active compounds in boswellia, called boswellic acids, have been shown to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes and reduce the production of inflammatory molecules (Siddiqui, 2011).
A study published in the journal Phytomedicine found that boswellia extract reduced pain and improved joint function in individuals with osteoarthritis, underscoring its potential as a natural anti-inflammatory remedy (Siddiqui et al., 2011).
5. Ginger
Ginger is a versatile spice with a well-documented history of use in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Gingerol, the main bioactive compound in ginger, has been studied for its ability to reduce inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory pathways (Grzanna et al., 2005).
Research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food suggests that ginger supplementation can reduce markers of inflammation in individuals with osteoarthritis, making it a valuable addition to an anti-inflammatory diet (Altman and Marcussen, 2001).
6. Quercetin
Quercetin is a flavonoid antioxidant found in various fruits, vegetables, and grains. It has been studied for its potential to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules and modulating immune cell activity (Zhang et al., 2015).
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition demonstrated that quercetin supplementation reduced inflammation in individuals with a history of smoking, highlighting its role in mitigating inflammatory responses associated with tobacco use (Maggio et al., 2009).
7. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in immune function and inflammation regulation. Research has shown that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased inflammation and a higher risk of inflammatory diseases (Bouillon et al., 2013).
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that vitamin D supplementation reduced inflammatory markers in individuals with type 2 diabetes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels for inflammation management (Nikooyeh et al., 2016).
8. Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a natural polyphenol found in grapes, red wine, and certain berries. It has gained attention for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Resveratrol can reduce inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory molecules and activating anti-inflammatory pathways (Sahebkar, 2013).
A meta-analysis published in the journal Pharmacological Research suggested that resveratrol supplementation significantly reduced markers of inflammation in various clinical trials, highlighting its potential as an anti-inflammatory nutrient (Faghihzadeh et al., 2019).
Conclusion
Inflammation is a complex biological response that plays a crucial role in protecting the body from harm. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to various health issues. Incorporating anti-inflammatory nutrients into your diet can help manage inflammation and reduce the risk of related conditions.
Omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin, green tea polyphenols, boswellia, ginger, quercetin, vitamin D, and resveratrol are among the nutrients that have shown promise in Reduce Inflammation through various mechanisms. These nutrients can be obtained through dietary sources or supplements, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes or starting any new supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
By incorporating these nutrients into a balanced diet and lifestyle, individuals can take proactive steps to support their overall health and well-being while reducing the impact of chronic inflammation.
1. Calder, P. C. (2006). n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, inflammation, and inflammatory diseases. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 83(6 Suppl), 1505S-1519S.
2. Olendzki, B. C., Leung, K., Van Buskirk, S., & Reed, G. (2016). A systematic review of the use of an anti-inflammatory supplement in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 35(6), 531-538.
3. Aggarwal, B. B., Sundaram, C., Malani, N., & Ichikawa, H. (2007). Curcumin: the Indian solid gold. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, 595, 1-75.
4. Gan, R., Lui, W. Y., Wu, K., & Chan, C. L. (2018). Pros and cons of curcumin supplementation in clinical practice: A systematic review. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, 24, 1-8.
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