Inside the DNA in every cell in the body lies a specific gene that is referred to as “the longevity gene.” The biochemistry is extremely complex, but let's try to simplify. The longevity gene produces NAD(P)H Quinone Dehydrogenase 1. It is abbreviated to NQO1. This enzyme is responsible for several critical reactions in cells. Too little NQO1 is associated with impaired detoxification, lower energy levels, and altered cellular function. NQO1 is critical in maintaining levels of the most active forms of vitamin B3 in cells, abbreviated NAD+ and NADP+. Among its critical reactions, NQO1 works with NADH in converting CoQ10 from its inactive form (ubiquinone) to its active form (ubiquinol) and in the process it also produces NAD+. NQO1 is also important in activating vitamin K to allow it to function in blood clotting, bone health, and other functions. Low levels of NAD+ in our cells and throughout the body can lead to:
A decline in metabolism, leading to weight gain and poor blood sugar control
Fatigue
Reduced blood vessel health
Age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia)
Aging-related memory loss and mental decline
Aging-related loss of sight and hearing
To boost NAD+, there is a lot of focus on using forms of NAD such as nicotinamide mononucleotide and nicotinamide riboside as dietary supplements. That may be an important step for some, but after looking at the biochemistry, supplementing with only NAD+ does not seem to be a complete answer.
Quercetin is a flavonoid, a group of over 8,000 plant pigments largely responsible for the colors of many fruits and flowers. In general, in experimental studies quercetin shows the most powerful effects of any flavonoid especially in fighting aging and inflammation. In addition, quercetin fights the increase of a cellular enzyme called CD38 which destroys NAD+ and other B3 forms as well.
Fortunately, quercetin has shown a strong ability to reduce the activity of CD38.
Quercetin also activates a compound known as Nrf2, which orchestrates a complex regulatory network that influences metabolism, inflammation, mitochondrial function, autophagy, and immune responses.
Nrf2 has been described as the “guardian of lifespan,” as it protects the cell against damage, aging, and malfunction. One of the reasons Nrf2 produces these benefits is that it is a powerful activator of NQO1.
Again, quercetin increases Nrf2 and helps it do its job in promoting cellular health.
Quercetin helps cells function better and exerts many anti-aging effects including an ability to preserve and restore mitochondrial function. These beneficial effects of quercetin occur primarily through its ability to restore the ability of the cell to produce energy and regulate itself properly. Quercetin has received a lot of attention recently due to scientific studies of its effects on immune system health. Specifically for its action on promoting enhanced immunity to the respiratory tract and its role in amplifying some of the antiviral effects of zinc. (Could be important in today's health climate, ya think?)
As a supplement, quercetin has been challenging to absorb with a high variability from person to person. Utilizing a liposomal form of quercetin has enhanced absorption by as much as 10 times compared to regular quercetin powder. You might be in the fortunate group and absorb it well, but to increase your chances, Natural Factors has a Quercetin LipoMicel Matrix as an option. If so motivated, check Dr. Michael Murray's web site for additional information specific to the function of this form of quercetin. It is also a good idea to increase dietary sources of quercetin such as onions, apples, berries, citrus, cherries, green tea, broccoli, and green leafy vegetables. These foods are not only rich in quercetin, but other near magical nutrients as well. Food form nutritional supplementation is always a winner!
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