From the Research
Individuals with the COMT Met/Met genotype should approach quercetin supplementation with caution, as it may exacerbate symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, or mood fluctuations, but they don't necessarily need to avoid it completely. The COMT (catechol-O-methyltransferase) Met/Met variant already results in slower breakdown of catecholamines like dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine 1. Since quercetin is a known COMT inhibitor, it could potentially further slow this enzyme's activity, leading to even higher levels of these neurotransmitters. This might exacerbate symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, or mood fluctuations in Met/Met carriers who are already prone to such issues due to naturally higher catecholamine levels.
Some key points to consider:
- The COMT Met/Met genotype is associated with reduced COMT activity, which can lead to increased levels of catecholamines 2.
- Quercetin is a known COMT inhibitor, which could further reduce COMT activity and increase catecholamine levels 1.
- Individuals with the COMT Met/Met genotype may be more sensitive to the effects of quercetin due to their already reduced COMT activity 3.
- Starting with a low dose of quercetin (perhaps 100-250mg daily) and monitoring response carefully is recommended, as well as considering alternative flavonoids or antioxidants that don't inhibit COMT as strongly 4.
If you have the COMT Met/Met genotype and wish to use quercetin, it's essential to:
- Start with a very low dose and monitor your response carefully
- Pay attention to changes in sleep quality, anxiety levels, and mood
- Consider taking quercetin earlier in the day rather than in the evening to minimize potential sleep disruptions
- Discontinue use or further reduce the dosage if you experience negative effects.