Why This Powerful Nutrient Deserves More Attention

Quercetin is a plant compound found in onions, apples, berries, grapes and tomatoes that supports your antioxidant defenses while helping regulate inflammation, immune activity and cellular stress Quercetin protects cells through several pathways at once, including supporting glutathione, activating protective genes and limiting oxidative damage to fats in cell membranes and LDL particles Human research found that quercetin supported cardiovascular health, with measurable improvements in blood pressure and oxidized LDL among people with high blood pressure or increased metabolic risk Older adults who consumed quercetin-rich onion for 24 weeks experienced greater improvement in cognitive function than those eating quercetin-free onion, along with improvements in depressive symptoms and motivation Whole foods are the preferred way to increase your quercetin intake, while supplements provide a more concentrated option and can be paired with vitamin C to support quercetin's activity