COQ10, an abbreviation for Coenzyme Q10, is a compound produced naturally by the body. In fact, it is a substance that exists in all life forms, and even certain foods. As its name implies, it assists the functioning of enzymes. Enzymes are proteins that are responsible for speeding up the rate of chemical reactions that take place in our bodies. Vital functions such as our metabolism are dependent upon these chemical reactions, and, therefore, enzymes and coenzymes, such as COQ10.
COQ10 is needed by every cell in the body to produce energy. This energy is used in countless crucial ways, such as breaking down and digesting our food, healing wounds, and maintaining healthy muscles.
Because Coenzyme Q10 is central to the production of energy, it’s not surprising that it is found in especially high concentrations in the heart muscle, which requires a tremendous amount of energy to perform its incessant functions.
Much has been attributed to COQ10’s ability to strengthen the heart muscle, and prevent heart attacks and heart disease. Indeed, unlike some other nutritional supplements, which have scant scientific evidence of efficacy, Coenzyme Q10 has been proven in multiple major studies to significantly improve the health of patients with congestive heart failure.
In addition, other studies have revealed that people suffering from cardiovascular disease tend to have low levels of this crucial nutrient, strongly suggesting a link.
Coenzyme Q10 also acts as a nutrient with powerful antioxidant properties. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which are highly reactive chemical substances that can damage cellular material, leading to premature aging and disease. Because of the protection it affords, some experts believe it may have a role in treating or preventing certain types of cancers. Indeed, some studies, although not major in scope, have shown this nutrient can help survival rates in those with prostate and breast cancer.
In Japan, Coenzyme Q10 is a hugely popular supplement, with almost 10% of the adult population regularly taking it as a general anti-aging and energy boosting nutrient. Because of its immense promise, it is now catching on to most other parts of the world, including the U.S.
Coenzyme Q10 has been shown to deplete in our bodies the older we get. Therefore, supplementation is probably most important for the elderly.
As the above suggests, there are many benefits of COQ10.
No serious adverse reactions are known. However, in rare cases, minor discomforting side effects reported have included: dizziness, nausea, insomnia, and headaches.
As always, consult with your physician before beginning supplementation. CoQ10 is not intended to replace other prescriptions medications you may be taking.
1. If you’re taking CoQ10 for heart health, consider also combining it with other important heart nutrients, such as Vitamin E, B3, B6, B12.
2. Choose a product manufacturer that adheres to pharmaceutical GMP compliance,
which is the most rigorous for dietary supplements. Unfortunately, supplements
in the U.S. are largely unregulated and studies have shown consumers only
have a 1 in 5 chance of buying a product with the amount of ingredients
stated on the label or with that doesn't have contaminants.
How This Supplement Works in Your Body:
Produces Energy
in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate)
Protects against free radical
damage to cell structures and other substances in the body.
Controls flow of
oxygen within individual cells
Increases circulation
Boosts the immune
system
May improve heart-muscle metabolism
Potential treatment for chest
pain caused by narrowed coronary arteries (coronary insufficiency)
May lower
blood pressure
May treat congestive heart failure by enhancing pumping action
of heart
May be effective in congestive heart failure, ischemic heart
disease
Where This Supplement is Found:
Soybean oil
Sesame
oil
Canola oil
Wheat germ
Rice bran
Soybeans
Spinach
Broccoli
Beef
Salmon
Mackerel
Peanuts
Spinach
Sardines
How to Use:
Available as: Tablets and capsules. Oil-based supplements may be absorbed more
efficiently. Coenzyme Q10 maybe take up to 4-8 weeks to build up to peak
levels in the body and thus result in noticeable effects.
Cautions:
Don’t take if you have:
Heart disease,
without first consulting with a medical professional
Consult your doctor if you:
Take any medicinal drugs or
herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins,
minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or nonprescription
drugs.
Pregnancy:
More dangers are associated with its use than
benefits.
Do not use.
Breastfeeding:
More dangers are associated with its use
than benefits.
Do not use.
Infants and Children:
It is hazardous to treat infants and children under 2 with any supplement.
** If not pregnant and do not consume amounts larger than a highly regarded manufacturer recommends on the package, no problems are expected.
Safe dosage:
To date, there has been no “safe” dosage
established.
Toxicity:
There have been no toxic effects reported, even
when administered at high doses.
Deficiency:
May be caused by nutritional deficiencies, a
genetic or acquired defect in synthesis or because of increased tissue needs due
to a medical condition. Affects the heart due to the large amount of ATP needed
in order to function. Has been linked to cancer, muscular dystrophy, diabetes,
obesity, periodontal disease, lowered immune function and neurodegenerative
disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.
Interactions:
Interacts with :
Vitamins B6,
Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid : All
required for the synthesis of Coenzyme Q10
Vitamin E : Protects Vitamin E
from damage
Coenzyme Q10 : Lessens the toxic effects of doxorubicin
Beta blockers : Impede on the production and function of Coenzyme Q10,
and greatly affect heart function Lovastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin
: Inhibit HMG-CoA reductase,thus lowering levels of Coenzyme Q10, Phenothiazine,
Neuroleptics, tricyclic antidepressants : Have effects of the function
of the heart
