A dietary trend which has become more popular in recent years is that of choosing gluten-free foods and food products. This is due, in part, to the prevalence of conditions which make the body sensitive or reactive to gluten.
For this reason, a number of valuable dietary supplements are available which are specifically produced and labeled as gluten-free. Gluten is a protein naturally found in grains such as wheat and barley, and it works as a binding agent in some processed foods to help hold them together and maintain their shape. Here, we continue with Part 9 of our Gluten-Free Natural Remedies series by taking a look at rutin.
What Is Rutin?
Rutin is a plant pigment which occurs naturally in a wide variety of plants including eucalyptus, citrus fruits, apples, figs, Japanese pagoda tree, and more. More specifically, it is a flavonoid. It is also contained in some other natural supplements such as Ginkgo biloba and St. John’s Wort. Rutin is traditionally utilized as a medicine.
This substance naturally has a variety of pharmacological properties. For this reason, rutin is made available in the form of a concentrated oral supplement. It provides antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and cholesterol-lowering properties, among others.
One of the most effective manners in which to ingest a concentrated dose of rutin is in the form of a standalone oral 500mg supplement. Rutin is also contained in other complex supplements in a much smaller amount, among them a pycnogenol supplement as well as a bilberry extract supplement. All three of these products are gluten-free.
Benefits of Rutin
Blood circulation: Research in recent years suggests that rutin could enhance proper blood circulation in your body. It has the potential to reduce elevated blood pressure as well as improve the strength and flexibility of blood vessels. This is a major benefit of rutin which can be therapeutic for those who need it because they are dealing with vascular issues.
Depression: Animal studies suggest that rutin intake can combat depression. The chemical processes by which it can do so have been clearly defined. Rutin has beneficial effects on the brain’s neurotransmitter system. Research shows that it can specifically increase serotonin and noradrenaline levels, and decrease dopamine turnover in various parts of the brain.
Cholesterol: Some research suggests that rutin can decrease levels of unhealthy low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol as well as total cholesterol. This is primarily supported by animal studies. This could help to prevent the buildup of arterial plaque, a condition which could eventually, depending on buildup, lead to stroke or heart attack.
Reducing arthritic pain is a possible health benefit of rutin. Some research suggests this benefit can be produced in those with osteoarthritis thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. It is also helpful because it can reduce the calcification of cartilage tissue, and narrowing of spaces in cartilage.
Rutin is a gluten-free, plant-derived flavonoid supplement with multiple healthful properties. Research suggests that rutin can assist proper vascular health, cholesterol management, osteoarthritis pain, and depression. It is recommended that you talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.