Better Blood Pressure

Quercetin lowered BP and improved lipids

Earlier clinical trials examining the effects of quercetin on heart and circulation have been inconsistent. Here, doctors reviewed 17 recent placebo-controlled trials examining the effects of quercetin on blood pressure (BP) and lipids in 896 men and women.

Overall combined results showed quercetin was linked to an average decrease in systolic blood pressure of 3.09 mmHg, and an average decrease of 2.86 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure.

In trials lasting at least eight weeks, those taking quercetin saw increases in high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, the good cholesterol, and decreases in triglycerides. There were no reports of serious adverse events in any of the studies.

Discussing the findings, doctors said the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of quercetin may be responsible for significantly decreasing blood pressure in men and women, and when participants consumed quercetin for at least eight weeks, increasing HDL cholesterol levels and lowering triglycerides. Many fruits, and vegetables such as fennel, kale, and red onion, contain quercetin.

Reference: Nutrition Reviews; January, 2020, nuz071, Published Online