Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and individuals with kidney disease should avoid quercetin.
Who Should Avoid Quercetin?
While quercetin is a naturally occurring compound with various properties, certain populations should steer clear of its supplementation to prevent potential health risks. It's crucial to understand who falls into these categories to ensure safety.
The groups advised to avoid quercetin include:
- Pregnant Women: Due to limited information on its safety during pregnancy, women who are pregnant should avoid quercetin.
- Breastfeeding Women: Similar to pregnancy, there is insufficient data regarding the effects of quercetin on infants through breast milk, making it advisable for breastfeeding women to avoid its use.
- Individuals with Kidney Disease: People with pre-existing kidney conditions should avoid quercetin. Evidence suggests that very high doses of this supplement may lead to kidney damage.
Important Considerations for Quercetin Use
Beyond the specific groups mentioned above, there are general precautions that everyone considering quercetin supplementation should be aware of:
- High Doses: Taking exceptionally high doses of quercetin can potentially harm the kidneys, even in individuals without pre-existing kidney disease. Adhering to recommended dosages is crucial.
- Periodic Breaks: It is recommended to take regular breaks from quercetin supplementation. Research indicates that a byproduct of quercetin may contribute to a loss of protein function, highlighting the importance of cycling its use to minimize potential long-term effects.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
