12) Cancer Fighting Supplements - Quercetin

Quercetin, a member of the Flavonoid family, is one of the subjects of ongoing exploration in the fight against Prostate Cancer. A supplement, it is available at any health food/vitamin store or online. As a potent antioxidant, it inhibits the replication of cancer cells according to an American Medical Association study. Though Flavonoids have many functions in plants, simply put they can be considered as plant pigments found in fruits, flowers, and vegetables that give the plants their color. There are thousands of different Flavonoids in nature.

Quercetin comes primarily from citrus fruits, apples, onions, parsley, tea, and red wine. It has been shown to have healthful antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, and antiviral effects. It can improve the health of capillaries; reduce the risk of atherosclerosis; inhibit an enzyme that plays a part in the formation of diabetic cataract, neuropathy, and retinopathy; enhance the action of vitamin C; promote bone density; and much more. 

Prostate studies have shown exciting results from the use of Quercetin. In one study it was seen to reduce the symptoms of Prostatitis. Another study indicates Quercetin may be more effective than resveratrol in terms of inhibiting cancer cell growth. The effects of Quercetin combating Prostate Cancer have been shown to be especially true on Highly and Moderately Aggressive Prostate Cancer Cells. Another study showed that Quercetin inhibited the expression and function of the androgen receptor involved in the development and progression of prostate cancer thereby halting its growth. Several studies through the University of Pittsburgh have also shown Quercetin to promote and enhance the death of prostate cancer cells. These results, And More, support the valuable roles of Quercetin, and other Flavonoids as cancer chemopreventive and treatment agents.

Think about it. Quercetin comes naturally from fruits and vegetables that in our western diet are so poorly eaten. When considering the value of Quercetin, there is little wonder in my mind why those who consume fresh juices, smoothies, and lightly cooked soups, made from Organic fruits and vegetables are on the road to health. Whether you consider Quercetin as keeping cancer cells from dividing, slowing their growth, or as killing the cancer cells as some studies suggest, it is a formidable power in the fight against Prostate Cancer and should be part of your regimen.

Side effects when taking Quercetin are few, and it is generally well tolerated. In limited cases such things as mouth sores, headaches, and digestive upset including heartburn, or acid reflux have been reported. It also may reduce the effectiveness of other forms of estrogen, and enhance the effect of such medications as Warfarin (Coumadin), Clopidogrel (Plavix), and Aspirin thereby increasing the risk for bleeding. In some cases taking too much Quercetin can manifest itself in joint discomfort. As always you should check with a trusted medical professional for drug interaction or if you experience any of these symptoms.

Suggested dosage is between 200mg and 500mg per day. Larger doses can be taken daily but should be spread out. Though single doses up to 4 gram have been taken with no side effects, an upper limit of 1,500mg spread 3 times per day should probably be considered. As it does not digest well, for proper absorption it is important to take Quercetin with proteolytic enzymes, especially Bromelain. I am currently taking 500mg per day first thing in the morning along with proteolytic enzymes. 

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