Resveratrol and Quercetin: The Newest Weight Control Supplements

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Resveratrol and quercetin have a few things in common. They’re both plant compounds, called flavonoids, and they both have specific effects on biochemical and metabolic functions in certain cells. For instance, both have been shown to inhibit cell proliferation (growth in numbers) and to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells. Those are impressive talents.

Now, research shows that both of these nutrients also work against fat cells. When given to fat cells separately, each can suppress fat accumulation in maturing fat cells by 9 – 15%. But when they are given together, they decrease fat accumulation in fat cells by more than 68%, according to researchers at the University of Georgia.

What’s more, they also increase programmed cell death in mature fat cells by up to 18%. That’s important, because once fat cells mature, they tend to have a long life. “Triggering the death of fat cells intentionally may be an important way to help people lose weight,”says senior investigator MaryAnne DellaFera, Ph.D.

As exciting as these new research finding are, it’s a little early to say exactly what it means for someone who is trying to lose weight, Dr. DellaFera says. This was an in vivo study, meaning it was done in cells outside of the body. The next step will be to see if this combination works the same way inside the body, and if so, if it is safe and what amounts are useful. Still, Dr. DellaFera is very hopeful.  “We are trying to find ways to trigger weight loss by having a direct activity on fat cells, rather than suppressing food intake, which isn’t very effective in the long term,” she says. “We think natural products are the safest way to go, and they tend to work better in combination.” (Yang, JY, et al. Life Sciences. 82 (2008) 1032-1039.)

The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: If you’re interested in trying resveratrol and quercetin for weight loss, we recommend amounts found helpful and safe for longevity and cancer protection: 500-1,000 mg of each daily. Check with your doctor first if you are taking an anticoagulant or anti-clotting drug.

Tags: natural weight loss, quercetin, resveratrol, weight loss