Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a molecule present in almost all human cells. This substance is vital for proper cell function and energy production. Coenzyme Q10 is used by the part of a cell known as the mitochondria - the “powerhouse” of the cell. The mitochondria produce energy for the cell from glucose (simple sugar) molecules. Energy is produced in the form of ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, the basic unit of energy at the cellular level. So, adequate CoQ10 levels are necessary for adequate energy production to support basic cellular functions. Coenzyme 10Q is available as an over the counter supplement that can benefit heavy exercisers, as well as individual with some forms of cardiac disease.
Should I take a Coenzyme Q10 supplement?
While it is unknown whether use of CoQ10 by healthy individuals is beneficial, many nutritionists recommend supplementation empirically. Given the role of CoQ10 in production of energy (ATP) at the cellular level, it is believed that insuring adequate levels of CoQ10 will promote optimum organ and muscle function. This is particularly true for moderate to heavy exercisers. Logically, individuals that use a large amount of energy by exercising will need more CoQ10 in order to produce that energy.
Is Coenzyme Q10 used to treat any diseases?
Studies have been done on the effect of Coenzyme Q10 in patients with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). CHF is a condition in which cardiac function is decreased, usually due to damage of the heart muscle by atherosclerosis. The studies performed in CHF patients generally show improved heart function with administration of Coenzyme Q10 supplements.
What dose of Coenzyme Q10 should I take?
As with many supplements, there are no hard and fast recommendations regarding dose. Doses as low as 30 milligrams per day have been studied in patients with CHF, with positive results noted. Others, such as Dr. Steven Gundry, in his book, Dr. Gundry’s Diet Evolution, recommend up to 250 mg per day. Coenzyme Q10 supplements should be taken with a meal, preferably accompanying food containing essential fatty acids, such as fish. Alternatively, coenzyme Q10 capsules can be taken along with an omega 3 fatty acid supplement, to enhance absorption of the CoQ10.
Are there any drug interactions with Coenzyme Q10?
No negative interactions are known. However, CoQ10 supplementation is recommended for patients using cholesterol lowering medications (statins). These drugs will lower the body’s level of CoQ10, along with cholesterol. The lower Co Q10 levels may be the source of the muscle pain and weakness that may develop in some patients using statin medications. Supplementation with CoQ10 may help prevent or alleviate this side effect of statins.
What other benefits are there to Coenzyme Q10 supplementation?
CoQ10 is the only known nutrient other than niacin that can lower lipoprotein Lp(a), a particularly dangerous form of cholesterol.
What is Coenzyme Q10?
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a molecule present in almost all human cells. This substance is vital for proper cell function and energy production. Coenzyme Q10 is used by the part of a cell known as the mitochondria - the “powerhouse” of the cell. The mitochondria produce energy for the cell from glucose (simple sugar) molecules. Energy is produced in the form of ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, the basic unit of energy at the cellular level. So, adequate CoQ10 levels are necessary for adequate energy production to support basic cellular functions. The internal organs with the highest energy requirements – the heart and the liver – have the highest CoQ10 levels.
Should I take a Coenzyme Q10 supplement?
While it is unknown whether use of CoQ10 by healthy individuals is beneficial, many nutritionists recommend supplementation empirically. Given the role of CoQ10 in production of energy (ATP) at the cellular level, it is believed that insuring adequate levels of CoQ10 will promote optimum organ and muscle function. This is particularly true for moderate to heavy exercisers. Logically, individuals that use a large amount of energy by exercising will need more CoQ10 in order to produce that energy.
Is Coenzyme Q10 used to treat any diseases?
Studies have been done on the effect of Coenzyme Q10 in patients with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). CHF is a condition in which cardiac function is decreased, usually due to damage of the heart muscle by atherosclerosis. The studies performed in CHF patients generally show improved heart function with administration of Coenzyme Q10 supplements.
What dose of Coenzyme Q10 should I take?
As with many supplements, there are no hard and fast recommendations regarding dose. Doses as low as 30 milligrams per day have been studied in patients with CHF, with positive results noted. Others, such as Dr. Steven Gundry, in his book, Dr. Gundry’s Diet Evolution, recommend up to 250 mg per day. Coenzyme Q10 supplements should be taken with a meal, preferably accompanying food containing essential fatty acids, such as fish. Alternatively, coenzyme Q10 capsules can be taken along with an omega 3 fatty acid supplement, to enhance absorption of the CoQ10.
Are there any drug interactions with Coenzyme Q10?
No negative interactions are known. However, CoQ10 supplementation is recommended for patients using cholesterol lowering medications (statins). These drugs will lower the body’s level of CoQ10, along with cholesterol. The lower Co Q10 levels may be the source of the muscle pain and weakness that may develop in some patients using statin medications. Supplementation with CoQ10 may help prevent or alleviate this side effect of statins.
What other benefits are there to Coenzyme Q10 supplementation?
CoQ10 is the only known nutrient other than niacin that can lower lipoprotein Lp(a), a particularly dangerous form of cholesterol.
For further information refer to: Introduction to Coenzyme Q10, by Peter Langsjoen, M.D., F.A.C.A.
