Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a substance similar to a vitamin. It is found in every cell of the body and your cells use it to produce energy your body needs for cell growth and maintenance, it is predominantly found and used in your heart which is your body’s largest energy user.
Facts about CoQ10 you should know
- CoQ10 levels naturally decrease with age
- Statins lower CoQ10 levels because they hinder your body’s production of CoQ10
- CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant.
Ageing
The lack of energy we call “ageing” can often just be a CoQ10 deficit.
Your body naturally produces CoQ10 throughout your life, but production drops off as you get older. When older people start taking CoQ10, they very often feel energised and much younger.
Statin medication
Cholesterol lowering statin drugs decrease CoQ10 production, often to such an extent people end up with muscle aches/cramps and weakness. These can become so debilitating people are forced to stop taking them. Doctors are increasingly advising people that taking a CoQ10 supplement alongside statins is critical.
In a 2007 clinical study published in the American Journal of Cardiology, researchers found that CoQ10 decreases muscle breakdown and reduces pain and discomfort on people taking statins. The publication summarises "coenzyme Q10 supplementation may offer an alternative to stopping treatment with these vital drugs".
If you’re over 60 or on a statin drug, a daily dose of 100-200 mg daily is recommended.
A powerful antioxidant
CoQ10 cleans up the destructive free radicals that are by-products of the energy production process. In addition to being a potent antioxidant, CoQ10 helps maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, promotes arterial health and supports a strong heartbeat. It also has proven health benefits for your gums, brain and skin. And studies suggest that it may help prevent migraines and slow hearing loss.
People with certain conditions, including diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and heart problems tend to have low levels of CoQ10 in their bodies. Researchers don’t know if the disease causes the deficiency or if the deficiency appears first, causing cells to age faster and making disease more likely.
Why we don't yet know enough about CoQ10
If Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) were a drug, pharmaceutical companies would be fighting over the patent.
However because it is a natural supplement, there is a lack of clinical research behind it, simply because the pharmaceutical companies who fund the clinical research can't profit from it (they do however greatly profit form medications like statins).
Fortunately there a wealth of information and first hand user reviews all over the internet about Coq10, if you want conduct your own additional research you will find plenty of backing and success stories!
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.