Coenzyme Q10 Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin-like compound that plays a crucial role for energy production within the body, including the heart. CoQ10 is produced by the liver using the vitamins B, C, folic acid and mineral trace. Also, it is present in food, and the best sources are oily fish, organ meats, such as liver and whole grains. There is evidence suggesting that the amount of CoQ10 produced by the liver, and the amount absorbed from the diet decreases with age. CoQ10 is required to produce energy, and also helps protect the cell membranes and the arteries from oxidative stress and from inflammatory damage. Deficiency of CoQ10 compromises the function of cells, and people with certain conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, Parkinson’s disease, gum disease and those taking statins (cholesterol lowering drugs), tend to have low levels of CoQ10. Because of its beneficial effects, CoQ10 supplements are largely used as a natural treatment for a variety of health conditions.
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The importance of CoQ10 and heart health The heart uses mainly fats to produce energy it needs, and has a high number of large-sized mitochondria (the power house of cells), where CoQ10 is present in high concentration. In ischemic heart disease there is an inadequate blood supply and oxygen to the heart, compromising energy production. In people with ischemic condition, higher levels of CoQ10 can increase the amount of energy produced by the heart, which can be used to sustain its activity, alleviating the symptoms of the disease. Furthermore, there is scientific evidence suggesting that CoQ10 has also antihypertensive effects (blood pressure lowering), by improving the elasticity of artery walls, which is also important to prevent and treat cardiovascular diseases. Heart failure, occurs when the heart muscle does not pump blood efficiently. Patients with heart failure, by taking CoQ10, experience an improvement in their heart’s muscle contractility, improving the ability to pump blood, which translates into reduced symptoms and a better quality of life. In fact, CoQ10 supplements are often prescribed in combination with traditional therapy to treat cardiovascular diseases.
The importance of CoQ10 and the nervous system health CoQ10 can make a real difference in energy production and brain function. Oxidative stress and damage, represents one of the main factors of neurodegenerative diseases. The damaging action of free radicals on nerve structures is a mechanism typical of some diseases such as Parkinson’s and muscular dystrophy. Some studies have shown that CoQ10 supplants could block the biological mechanisms involved in the development and progression of these diseases. This represents an important tool for the prevention and treatment, and can be administered in conjunction with traditional drugs.
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Beneficial effects of CoQ10 on the skin CoQ10 helps improve energy levels and skin repair, as well as protecting the skin cells from the damaging effect of toxins and free radicals. Collagen is the main structural protein found in the skin and other connective tissues. CoQ10 and vitamin C are needed to produce collagen, which is essential for the health and appearance of the skin, also helping to reduce the typical signs of aging.
CoQ10 and sport CoQ10 is important for the production of ATP, which is the energy currency that all cells, including muscle cells, rely on to function. CoQ10 is involved in the mitochondrial electron transport chain that is an essential process in ATP production. Consequently, CoQ10 appears to improve sport performance and reduce feeling of fatigue. Furthermore, CoQ10 helps protect against muscle damage resulting from high intensity physical exercise, because it contributes to stabilising the muscle membrane, and this added stability can help the muscle fibres be more resilient
CoQ10 Dosage The dosage of CoQ10 generally ranges from 30gm to 200mg daily. The optimal amount depends on different factors such as age, overall health, and medication. In people with heart conditions the clinician may recommend up to 300gm of CoQ10, taken in smaller amount during the day.
Author contact details Dr Luigi Vorluni Email: luigi.vorluni@yahoo.com Phone: +44 7428 493 740