You may have never heard of Coenzyme Q10, also called CoQ10. It’s a compound that helps us generate energy in our cells. The body proceeds CoQ10 naturally, but as we age, that production slows down. Other conditions like heart disease, diabetes and cancer have also been linked to low levels of CoQ10.
What is CoQ10?
Coenzyme Q10 is a compound made by your body and stored in the mitochondria of your cells. The mitochondria are in charge of producing energy. They also protect cells from oxidative damage and disease-causing bacteria and viruses.
Health benefits of CoQ10
1. May help treat congestive heart failure
Heart failure is often the result of other heart conditions including high blood pressure and coronary artery disease. These conditions can lead to increased oxidative stress and damage as well as inflammation of the veins and arteries. In a study of 420 people with heart failure, treatment with CoQ10 for two years improved their symptoms and reduced their risk of dying from heart problems.
2. May help keep skin young
Applying CoQ10 directly to the skin can reduce and limit the damage from internal and external agents by increasing energy production in skin cells and promoting antioxidant protection. Using a CoQ10 supplement may also help decrease the likelihood of skin cancer.
3. Promotes cellular energy production
CoQ10 aids in the production of cellular energy and serves as an antioxidant. As well as provide energy for those feeling occasional fatigue. Similarly, taking CoQ10 supplements can help increase power during exercise which can improve exercise performance.
4. Can help treat diabetes
Oxidative stress can induce cell damage which can result in metabolic diseases like diabetes. CoQ10 has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.
5. It may play a role in cancer prevention
If your body is unable to effectively fight oxidative damage, the structure of your cells can become damaged, possibly increasing your risk of cancer. Low levels of CoQ10 have been associated with up to a 53.3% higher risk of cancer in addition to indicating a poor prognosis for various types of cancer, including Breast Cancer.
6. Helping to fight Parkinson’s Disease
Early research suggests that high doses of CoQ10 may be beneficial for people in the early stages of Parkinson’s Disease.
7. Reduce muscle plain from statin use
Cardiovascular Disease is an umbrella term for conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels. Doctors often prescribe statins to treat Cardiovascular Disease. These drugs work by reducing the cholesterol production that can contribute to the disease. These statins can lower CoQ10 levels which can lead to muscle pain. CoQ10 supplements may help relieve muscle pain related to statin use.
8. It may protect the lungs
Of all your organs, your lungs have the most contact with oxygen. This makes them very susceptible to oxidative damage. Increased oxidative damage in the lungs and poor antioxidant protection, including low levels of CoQ10, can result in lung diseases like asthma and COPD.
9. May help with migraine headaches
Some research suggests that CoQ10 might decrease the frequency of migraines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the correct dosage? How much CoQ10 is recommended daily?
As a dietary supplement, take two (2) capsules once a day. For best result, take 20-30 mins before a meal with water. DO NOT exceed recommended dose. Doses higher than 300 milligrams daily may affect your liver Pregnant or nursing mothers, children under the age of 18, and individuals with a known medical condition should consult a physician before taking it.
Can you take CoQ10 on an empty stomach?
CoQ10 and ubiquinol are fat-soluble molecules and are best absorbed with fats or oils, which is why it is good to take them with the largest meal of the day.
How does CoQ10 work?
CoQ10 performs two critical functions: It is a coenzyme that helps energize cells and is an antioxidant that helps protect cells. CoQ10’s energizing antioxidant properties can also enhance vitality across many-body systems. It also supports brain health, immune performance, skin health, exercise capacity, gum health, and more. CoQ10 does this by 'stimulating' the chemical reactions that energize cardiac tissues.
Is CoQ10 found in any foods?
Yes. It's found in organ meats (heart, liver, kidney), muscle meats like pork, beef and chicken, fatty fish, vegetables like spinach, broccoli and cauliflower, oranges and strawberries, legumes, nuts and seeds and oils such as soybean oil and canola oil.