Ubiquinol is the reduced, active antioxidant form of Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) and is considered to be more bioavailable than CoQ10 therefore can be more readily utilised by the body.
Crucial for energy production in the body
It is well documented that Ubiquinol is a substance necessary for use in cellular energy production in the body, it is natural and is a basic component of the body’s respiratory chain.
Scientific interest is gaining momentum for various applications, one of which is focusing on the micronutrient’s additional benefits for
sports nutrition.
Medium to intense sporting activity is associated with high power performance
but also with a higher level of oxidative stress which causes cell damage.
A recent study shows that Ubiquinol, obtained by
natural yeast-fermentation, has a positive effect on cellular antioxidant
activity (which counteracts the effects of oxidative stress), and also mitochondrial functions (micro cells often described as cellular power plants).
A double-blind scientific study produced very positive findings
In the double-blind crossover study, 21 athletes from a rugby team were
randomly assigned to take either 200 mg Ubiquinol per day or a placebo. After three weeks, followed by a two-week break to flush the athletes systems, the treatments were reversed i.e. the placebo group started taking the Ubiquinol and visa versa.
Blood samples were taken from the participants before and after a measured bout of intensive physical exercise which consisted of a 40 minute run on a treadmill at a maximum heart rate of 80 per cent. Biochemical analyses which included antioxidant levels and markers of muscular stress were then conducted on the samples.
Results for the placebo group showed a
decrease in total plasma CoQ10 content, lowered plasma antioxidant defence, increased oxidative stress and uncoupling of compensatory mechanisms in mitochondrial membranes.
Results for the Ubiquinol group contrasted and showed less of a decrease in CoQ10 total plasma levels, as well as decreased effects of oxidative stress during exercise and the recovery phase, and slightly accelerated recovery of mitochondrial functionality.
Previous scientific studies also show positive benefits
Scientific findings from previous studies show how Ubiquinol supplementation can be of further benefit to sports people. For example:
- Ubiquinol is able to significantly enhance peak power production in comparison to placebo in trained athletes
- Supplementation before strenuous exercise has been proven to modulate inflammatory signals and reduce subsequent muscle damage .
Additional
studies about the influence of short term supplementation with Ubiquinol related to physical activity are ongoing.
Ubiquinol is NOT categorised as a performance enhancing supplement
The German Sport University Cologne have confirmed that Ubiquinol is not classified as a performance enhancing substance and is part of the Cologne List® of tested, doping-free substances. The Cologne List® is a list of nutritional supplements which have been tested for banned substances. By only using products which are on Cologne List® athletes reduce the risk of unintentionally becoming the victims of doping. This means that Ubiquinol can be safely used in a wide range of sports supplements and functional foods for amateur and professional sports people alike without risk of it triggering a doping violation.
A healthy balanced diet is the best way to consume all the nutrients we need. Sometimes however this isn't possible and then supplements can help. This article isn't intended to replace medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional before trying any supplements or herbal medicines.