CoQ10: Protecting Your Cells
CoQ10 Supports A Healthy Heart
Coenzyme Q10, more commonly known as CoQ10, is an enzyme found naturally in the body. It is responsible for cell growth and maintenance and also has antioxidant properties.
Coenzyme Q10 Benefits
CoQ10 can benefit many body systems and function.
Heart Problems
Studies have shown that people with low levels of CoQ10 tend to have higher blood pressure. Other studies suggest that taking CoQ10 can help with symptoms associated with heart failure.
Cancer
Because CoQ10 has antioxidant properties it can help fight harmful free radicals in the body. Breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, colon cancer and kidney cancer patients were all found to have low CoQ10 blood levels.
Age-related Macular Degeneration
CoQ10 is shown to help support healthy aging of the eyes and healthy vision.
Alzheimer's Disease
Research on CoQ10 and Alzheimer's disease is still in its very early stages; however, early studies have suggested that CoQ10 may help slow down dementia in Alzheimer's patients.
High Cholesterol
People who have problems with high cholesterol typically have low levels of CoQ10. Cholesterol-reducing drugs like statins can also reduce natural CoQ10 levels in the body. Statins can also have harsh side effects and CoQ10 can help combat some of those side effects including muscle pain.
Diabetes
CoQ10 supplements promote optimal heart health and can also help promote healthy blood sugar levels and long-term blood sugar control.
CoQ10 can also benefit the following:
- Immune function in people who are HIV positive or have AIDS
- Increased sperm motility
- Parkinson's disease
- Exercise ability in people with anginga
- Migraines
- Peridontal health
- Kidney health
- Energy levels
Dietary Sources of CoQ10
- Salmon
- Tuna
- Organ meats
- Whole grains
Dosage of CoQ10
Giving CoQ10 to children is not commonly recommended. In adults 30-200mg is most commonly recommended. Softgels also tend to have better absorption.
Possible Interactions
CoQ10 can interfere with certain medications so it's best to talk with your primary care provider before you begin taking a CoQ10 supplement.
- Chemotherapy medications
- Daunorubicin and doxorubicin
- Blood pressure medications
- Blood-thinning medications
- Betaxolol
Quick Facts
- Your body naturally produces Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).
- As we grow older or experience some medical conditions our levels of CoQ10 can drop.
- Your body may be able to use CoQ10 to protect cells from damage that might lead to cancer.
- CoQ10 may also help reduce angina, the chest pain from clogged heart arteries.
- People who have problems with high cholesterol typically have low levels of CoQ10.
- CoQ10 may help slow down dementia in Alzheimer's patients.
- People using blood thinners or thyroid medications should check with their doctors before taking CoQ10.
- Side effects from taking CoQ10 appear to be rare and mild and include diarrhea, nausea, and heartburn.