Participants sought for health study at ASU

Appalachian State University researchers are investigating the health benefits of quercetin, a substance that reduces illness and helps maintain mental performance. 

Quercetin is a natural antioxidant derived from plants, such as red apples, red grapes and broccoli.

Researchers are recruiting 500 subjects for testing that will begin this fall. Subjects must be 18 to 85 years of age, and not have participated in the first round of the quercetin trial that began in fall 2007.

Participants will be divided into groups and take either a placebo or a quercetin supplemental beverage twice a day for 12 weeks.

Participants won’t have to alter their dietary or exercise practices during the test. They will be asked to provide information about their current health status, such as age, height, weight, disease, and risk factors; keep a daily wellness diary; and have a blood sample drawn and blood pressure tested before and after the 12-week study. They also will take a computerized test to measure mental alertness and mood. The tests will take about one hour to complete.

Dates and times for the first test session are 6:45-9 a.m., Aug. 26-30, and for the second test session between 6:45-9 a.m., Nov.18-22.  The dates and times will be assigned upon entering the study and adjusted to an individual’s schedule.

Those completing the study will receive $300 and results from an array of tests, including a lipid profile, which measures cholesterol levels.

To participate in the study, e-mail asuresearch@appstate.edu or call (828) 262-3142 and state that you want to join the study. An e-mail will be sent to research volunteers with further information.