CoQ10

What is CoQ10?

CoQ10, also known as ubiquinone, is a fat soluble coenzyme that has been compared to a vitamin because it is naturally occurring and necessary for normal functioning of the human body.  This vital molecule has importance throughout the body and is considered to be one of the true cornerstones of health.  Without it, imbalances can occur and our bodily systems won’t work at their optimal level.

Deficiencies of Coenzyme Q10 have been linked to:

• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• Periodontal disease
• Muscular dystrophy

CoQ10 is critically important for all cells and systems due to its role as a generator of energy. 
It is particularly critical for organs and systems that use large amounts of energy, such as the muscles, the brain, the liver, and particularly the circulatory system. 

The amount of CoQ10 present in the body declines with age, peaking when we are 20 years old.  While certain foods contain CoQ10, amounts may be too insignificant to help correct a deficiency. Fortunately, it can be supplemented, and is especially beneficial for those who are over the age of fifty. 

CoQ10 supplementation can help support:

• Normal energy levels
• The cardiovascular system
• Normal inflammatory responses
• Healthy circulation
• Antioxidant defense
• Liver detoxification
• Healthy gums
• Cognition and nerves
• Immunity
• Oxygenation of tissues

CoQ10 as an Energy Source

The body requires many nutrients, including CoQ10 in order to perform the complex biochemical processes that convert food into adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and energy that we can use. 

Within each cell, the energy-generating process takes place in structures called mitochondria—tiny power plants. Inside these energy-generating stations, fats, sugars, and amino acids are transformed into ATP, which is an energy-rich molecule sometimes called the “energy currency” of the body. Almost all biochemical activity in the body needs ATP to provide the energy to catalyze the reactions. 

ATP provides the “energy currency” for the following crucial metabolic functions:

• Synthesis of cellular components including cholesterol and proteins (formed primarily by the liver)
• Nerve conduction (in the brain and peripheral nerves)
• Energy for muscular contraction (of the heart and skeletal muscles)
• Thousands of enzymatic, biochemical reactions

CoQ10 as an Antioxidant

CoQ10 plays an additional vital role in our metabolism as an antioxidant to protect the lipids in our cell membranes. Its cellular behavior is similar to that of Vitamin E in the way it absorbs into cells, functioning as an antioxidant.  However, laboratory studies have also shown that CoQ10 is more efficient than vitamin E, beta carotene, or lycopene in safeguarding LDL cholesterol from oxidation.

CoQ10’s power as a scavenger molecule lies in the way it locks onto a molecule before a free radical can, lending it an electron. The organic molecule is no longer reactive to free radicals. That’s strong protective power at the cellular level, so it’s important to have a molecule with good mobility within the bloodstream.

CoQ10 Supports Key Functions of the Heart

The heart muscle (myocardium) consumes a tremendous amount of energy.  The human heart beats over 100,000 times and pumps 1,000 gallons of blood each day.  CoQ10 is necessary for the generation of the energy required by the heart. Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated that supplementation with this nutrient may support normal heart function. Its postivie effect on cardiac performance during exercise includes improved blood flow, oxygen utilization, and exercise tolerance.  In addition, CoQ10 may play a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure.

CoQ10 and Various Health Conditions

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)
Information from many research studies suggests that CoQ10 supplements help reduce swelling in the legs, enhance breathing by reducing fluid in the lungs, and increase exercise capacity in people with CHF.

Heart Disease
Researchers believe that the beneficial effect of CoQ10 in the prevention and treatment of heart disease is due to its ability to improve energy production in cells, inhibit blood clot formation, and act as an antioxidant.

High Blood Pressure
Several studies involving small numbers of people suggest that CoQ10 may lower blood pressure. However, it may take 4 to 12 weeks before you notice any beneficial effect.

Periodontal (gum) Disease
Gum disease is a widespread problem that is associated with swelling, bleeding, pain, and redness of the gums. Studies have shown that people with gum disease tend to have low levels of CoQ10 in their gums. In studies, CoQ10 supplements caused faster healing and tissue repair. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of CoQ10 when used together with traditional therapy for periodontal disease.

Fibromyalgia
A study evaluated whether anecdotal claims of benefits from CoQ10 and ginkgo in those with fibromyalgia could be substantiated. Participants received 200 mg of CoQ10and 200 mg of ginkgo biloba extract daily for 84 days. Their quality of life was evaluated by well-validated questionnaires that measured seven different subjective responses, after 4, 8 and 12 weeks. The quality of life scores showed progressive improvement during the study period and at its completion. There was a significant difference of scores from the start to the end. In the self-rating criteria, 64% claimed to feel better, compared to 9% feeling worse. Any adverse effects were noted as being minor. Thus, CoQ10 and ginkgo biloba improved the quality of life of those with fibromyalgia. 
Source: JOURNAL OF INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL RESEARCH, 2002, Vol 30, Iss 2, pp 195-199
 
Other
Preliminary studies also suggest that CoQ10 may:

• Improve immune function in individuals with immune deficiencies and chronic infections such as yeast and other viral infections
• Increase sperm motility leading to enhanced fertility
• Be used as part of the treatment for Alzheimer's disease
• Enhance physical activity in people with fatigue syndromes
• Improve exercise tolerance in individuals with muscular dystrophy
• Reduce damage from stroke
• Boost athletic performance

Further Reading

http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/othernuts/coq10/
http://faculty.washington.edu/ely/coenzq10.html
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/coenzyme-q10-000295.htm

Supplement Facts

Capsules per Container: 60 Softgels
Serving Size:  One Softgel
Suggested Use:  1 softgel daily with a meal, or as directed by your health care professional. 

*Daily value not established.

Other Ingredients: rice bran oil, gelatin, glycerin, purified water, zinc oxide, soy lecithin, turmeric, and canthaxathin.  DOES NOT contain yeast, dairy, egg, gluten, or wheat. Contains no sugar, starch, salt, preservatives, or artificial flavor or fragrance.

Warning: If you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your health care professional before using this product.  Caution is advised in people who have bleeding disorders or who are taking prescription drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Dosing adjustments may be necessary.  STORE IN A COOL, DRY PLACE.

Manufactured by Source Naturals

CoQ10 Energizer and Antioxidant by Source Naturals 60 Softgels, 100 mg. $18.95 - Discount Price (Retail Price $31.50 - save 40%) Quantity 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Add to cart

References

• Folkers et al., BCACQ, Elsevier, 1977
• Judy et al., BCACQ, Elsevier, 1984.
• Kamikawa, T. et al., American Journal of Cardiology,Vol. 56, August 1, 1985, p. 247-250.
• Nohara et al., Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q, Elsevier, 1984.
• Packer, L., Oxidative Stress and Aging, Birkhauser Verlad, 1995.
• Stocker, et al., Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Vol. 88, pp 1646-1650, March 1991.
• Tortora, G. Principles of Human Anatomy, 4th Ed., Harper & Row, New York, 1986, p. 301.
• Wilkinson and Arnold, Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q, Elsevier, 1977.
• Yamagami et al., Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q, Elsevier, 1977.