Quercetin is a plant pigment, a type of flavonoid, found in various foods and widely available as a dietary supplement. While it is commonly used for its antioxidant properties, some individuals report experiencing heart palpitations after taking it. This article explores the current understanding of quercetin and its potential relationship with heart palpitations.
Understanding Quercetin
Quercetin is a flavonoid, a plant pigment known for its antioxidant properties. This compound is not produced by the human body but is readily obtained through diet. It is abundant in various fruits, vegetables, and beverages, including capers, red onions, kale, apples, berries, and green tea.
Beyond dietary intake, quercetin is also sold as an over-the-counter oral dietary supplement, typically in tablet or capsule form. These supplements often provide a concentrated dose compared to what is consumed through food. Doses of up to 1 gram daily for up to 12 weeks have been considered possibly safe for short-term use.
Understanding Heart Palpitations
Heart palpitations describe the sensation of a heartbeat that feels unusually noticeable. Individuals might perceive their heart as pounding, fluttering, racing, or even skipping beats. These sensations can be felt in the chest, neck, or throat and may last for seconds or minutes.
A wide range of factors can cause heart palpitations, many of which are not related to serious underlying conditions. Common triggers include emotional states such as stress, anxiety, or panic attacks. Lifestyle factors like strenuous exercise, consumption of caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine, and even dehydration can also lead to palpitations. Other causes include certain medications, hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, and medical conditions like anemia or an overactive thyroid.
Exploring the Quercetin-Palpitation Link
While short-term supplemental use of quercetin up to 1 gram daily is often deemed safe, its direct link to heart palpitations as a common side effect in clinical studies is not well-established. However, some anecdotal reports from individuals taking quercetin supplements describe experiencing heart palpitations or an increased heart rate. These reports are not clinically verified but indicate a perceived connection for some.
The exact mechanisms by which quercetin might contribute to palpitations in sensitive individuals are not fully understood. One hypothesis suggests that quercetin could have mild stimulant-like effects, similar to caffeine. While one study indicated that quercetin supplementation slowed caffeine metabolism, the overall effect was considered almost negligible. It is also possible that higher doses of quercetin might be more likely to trigger side effects in susceptible individuals.
It is important to consider that many common factors can cause heart palpitations. An individual beginning a new supplement, such as quercetin, might attribute any new onset of palpitations to the supplement, even if another common trigger is responsible. In contrast to these anecdotal reports, some research indicates that quercetin may actually have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health, including potential anti-arrhythmic properties. However, human clinical data on these cardioprotective effects are limited and inconclusive.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If you experience heart palpitations, especially if they occur frequently or persist for more than a few minutes, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Medical attention is particularly important if palpitations are accompanied by other symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying heart condition.
Individuals with a pre-existing heart condition or a family history of heart problems should also seek medical advice regarding any new or changing palpitations. Always discuss all medications and supplements, including quercetin, with a doctor to ensure they are appropriate for your health needs and to avoid potential interactions or side effects. Self-diagnosing or discontinuing prescribed medications without professional guidance is not recommended.