Information for Health and Well-Being
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Much research has been focused on the health benefits of CoQ10. Also known as Coenzyme Q10 or ubiquinone, the benefits ascribed to it have even led CoQ10 to being called Vitamin Q.

What is CoQ10?

CoQ10 is the abbreviated name for Coenzyme Q10. It is named as such because it falls in a group of compounds called CoQ or Coenzymes and CoQ10 has 10 isoproteins. CoQ10 is a biochemical compound that is synthesized in the body. Its primary function is to produce energy. CoQ10 is primarily found in cell membranes especially the membrane of mitochondria which are responsible for producing energy.

CoQ10 is available abundantly in cells when we are young. In fact its name ubiquinone is derived from the word ubiquituous since it is found in all cells. However as cells age, CoQ10 gets depleted.

CoQ10 has an important role to play in the respiratory chain. It helps in transporting electrons via which energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is produced. Cells need ATP in order to perform their functions. CoQ10 helps to stabilize membranes and is also an antioxidant that helps in regenerating other antioxidants.

Should CoQ10 be taken as a supplement?

As the body ages, it no longer produces adequate amounts of CoQ10. To compensate this depletion, CoQ10 is taken as a supplement. Sometimes CoQ10 can get depleted in the event of illnesses and disorders such as mitochondrial disorders or metabolic disorders. Use of statins for cholesterol control also causes depletion of CoQ10 and CoQ10 is highly recommended as an adjuvant with the administration of such medications especially to prevent heart disease. Research has found that presence of candida in the gut may cause loss of CoQ absorption as the candida cells may absorb all of it. In all of the above cases CoQ10 is recommended as a supplement to the diet. Organs that require high levels of energy to function such as the heart, liver and muscles are most affected by CoQ10 deficiency.

What are the benefits of CoQ10?

• CoQ10 is considered very beneficial for the heart muscles.
• CoQ10 acts as a cardio-protective and may help prevent stroke
• CoQ10 gives relief from chest pain caused by angina
• CoQ10 improves the ability for cardiovascular exercises
• CoQ10 helps normalize heart rythm
• CoQ10 helps to lower blood pressure. A study conducted in the University of Texas showed that 50% of patients who took CoQ10 were able to lower their blood pressure.
• CoQ10 is an antioxidant and scavenges for free radicals.
• Studies have shown CoQ10 to have a beneficial effect in Alzheimers disease by slowing dementia.
• CoQ10 is highly recommended when taking statin drugs. Statin drugs are known to deplete CoQ10 which causes side effects such as heart problems and muscle aches and pains.
• CoQ10 helps to improve eyesight especially in age-related macular degeneration.
• CoQ10 combats Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
• CoQ10 is useful for maintaining healthy gums and in the treatment of peridontitis
• CoQ10 is said to prevent recurrence in patients recovering from type 1 & 2 melanoma

What are the side effects of CoQ10?

There are very few side effects of CoQ10. The side effects that may occur are normally mild and stop quickly without any further treatment.

Some of the side effects of CoQ10 include indigestion, nausea, dizziness, itching, skin rash, light sensitivity of the eyes, and flu like symptoms.

CoQ10 may lower blood sugar levels as well as blood pressure. So if you are taking any other medications for high blood sugar or blood pressure it is advisable to take CoQ10 under the supervision of a doctor.

How much CoQ10 should be taken?

Between 30 to 60mg of CoQ10 for normally healthy adults. Larger doses may be prescribed for patients with migraine problems. Too high doses can cause insomnia and tiredness. CoQ10 may be better absorbed via oil emulsions.

CoQ10 health benefits & Side effects | CoQ10 research