Are you looking to boost your immunity? If so, you may have heard of quercetin with bromelain as a powerful combination. Quercetin is an antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables linked with reducing inflammation and other beneficial benefits. At the same time, bromelain comes from the pineapple stem and aids digestion. Together they’re thought to be an even more effective tool for boosting immunity — but should they be taken together?
In this article, we’ll look at why quercetin with bromelain are often combined, how best to use them, any side effects one needs to watch out for, and more! So keep reading if you want to get the scoop on this combination.
Table of Contents
What is Quercetin?
Quercetin is a type of bioflavonoid, or plant-derived pigment, found in many fruits and vegetables. It has been studied extensively for its antioxidant activity. In addition, it is believed to help reduce inflammation, improve cardiovascular health, alleviate allergies, prevent respiratory infections, and support the body’s natural defense mechanisms.
Additionally, studies have shown that oral administration of quercetin may help relieve the discomfort associated with prostate infections. [1]
Some athletes use quercetin to strengthen their endurance and improve their athletic performance. However, even while the results of research conducted on animals are encouraging, it is likely that the effects, if any, will be limited to people. [2] Taking quercetin can help athletes avoid getting a urinary tract infection (UTI) after a tough workout.
In some research, consuming foods rich in quercetin has reduced the chance of developing cancer. But there should be additional studies. While promising, cancer research on animal models has not yet translated to successful human clinical trials. The most recent ovarian cancer meta-analysis found no significant advantage. [3]
What is Bromelain?
Bromelain is a type of enzyme derived from pineapple. It is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, as well as its ability to help digest proteins.
Bromelain is thought to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects, as well as its ability to help digest proteins. Therefore, it has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties.
It has been found to reduce inflammation in the body, improve digestive health, decrease pain from arthritis, improve quality of life for those with cancer, and boost the immune system. Bromelain can also help improve the absorption of other nutrients, including quercetin.
Should Quercetin and Bromelain Be Mixed?
Yes, quercetin and bromelain can be taken together. Their benefits can be extremely beneficial when taken together. Quercetin offers a potent antioxidant activity that helps to reduce inflammation and fight free radicals in the body.
On the other hand, bromelain is a digestive enzyme that can help break down proteins for better absorption of nutrients. Together, quercetin and bromelain can have an even greater effect on your overall health.
Benefits of Combining Quercetin with Bromelain
The combination of quercetin with bromelain is thought to offer a wide range of health benefits, including:
1. Reducing Inflammation
Quercetin has potent anti-inflammatory effects, while bromelain can help the body absorb quercetin more effectively. This combination can be beneficial for reducing inflammation in the body and alleviating symptoms of conditions such as arthritis.
2. Boosting Immunity
Bromelain is known to have antimicrobial properties, which may help to boost the body’s natural defense mechanisms. Additionally, quercetin is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the body from free radical damage.
3. Improving Digestive Health
Bromelain is a digestive enzyme that helps break down proteins for better absorption of nutrients. This can aid digestion and help alleviate digestive issues such as indigestion, heartburn, and bloating symptoms.
4. Supporting Cardiovascular Health
Quercetin has been studied for its potential benefits in promoting healthy cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of certain cardiovascular diseases. In addition, bromelain can help quercetin absorb more effectively, potentially providing additional cardiovascular benefits.
Side Effects of Taking Quercetin with Bromelain
Although quercetin with bromelain are generally safe, there are some potential side effects. Quercetin may cause nausea, dizziness, headache, or rash in some individuals. Bromelain can cause mild stomach upset if taken on an empty stomach.
It is also important to note that quercetin and bromelain can interact with certain medications, so it is important to check with your doctor before mixing quercetin and bromelain.
Who Should Not Take Quercetin?
Quercetin is not recommended for individuals with allergies to quercetin or other bioflavonoids. Additionally, quercetin should be avoided by people taking anti-infa llammatory medications, anticoagulants, or blood thinners, such as aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin).
Bromelain should not be taken by people with bleeding disorders, as it can increase the risk of bleeding. Also, people with asthma, gout, high blood pressure, or diabetes should avoid quercetin as it could interact with their medications or worsen symptoms.
What Supplement Should be Taken with Quercetin?
It is recommended to take quercetin with a meal. Additionally, quercetin may be best absorbed when taken in combination with vitamin C and bromelain. Bromelain helps quercetin to be better absorbed by the body and allows quercetin to reach therapeutic levels more quickly.
Bottomline: Quercetin with Bromelain
Overall, quercetin with bromelain is both safe supplements that can offer a range of health benefits when taken together. However, checking with your doctor before combining quercetin and bromelain is essential to ensure they are safe for you. Additionally, quercetin is best absorbed with a meal and combined with vitamin C and bromelain.
If you decide to take quercetin and bromelain together, following the recommended dosage on the product label is important to avoid potential side effects. With careful use, quercetin with bromelain can offer a range of health benefits.
Disclaimer: This article is only a guide. It does not substitute the advice given by your healthcare professional. Before making any health-related decision, consult your healthcare professional.
Editorial References And Fact-Checking
- Ward AB, Mir H, Kapur N, Gales DN, Carriere PP, Singh S. Quercetin inhibits prostate cancer by attenuating cell survival and inhibiting anti-apoptotic pathways. World J Surg Oncol. 2018 Jun 14;16(1):108. doi: 10.1186/s12957-018-1400-z. PMID: 29898731; PMCID: PMC6001031.
- Daneshvar P, Hariri M, Ghiasvand R, Askari G, Darvishi L, Mashhadi NS, Khosravi-Boroujeni H. Effect of eight weeks of quercetin supplementation on exercise performance, muscle damage and body muscle in male badminton players. Int J Prev Med. 2013 Apr;4(Suppl 1):S53-7. PMID: 23717771; PMCID: PMC3665027.
- Jeong JH, An JY, Kwon YT, Rhee JG, Lee YJ. Effects of low dose quercetin: cancer cell-specific inhibition of cell cycle progression. J Cell Biochem. 2009 Jan 1;106(1):73-82. doi: 10.1002/jcb.21977. PMID: 19009557; PMCID: PMC2736626.
