Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a nutrient that occurs naturally in the body. It is an anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory. CoQ10 is found in every cell in your body and is necessary for the cell to function properly. It also helps convert the food we eat and the air we breathe into energy.
CoQ10 has been found to help us in so many ways that, according to cardiologist Dr. Stephen Sinatra, “if coenzyme Q10 were a drug, drug companies would fight for the patent.”
What benefits have been discovered with this enzyme? It has been shown by research to be important in helping prevent many diseases and has also been used to treat many different conditions. It is important in the prevention of heart disease, cancer, muscular dystrophy, periodontal disease, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, migraines, age-related macular degeneration, stomach ulcers , hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia and various neurological disorders. Supplements have been used to lower blood pressure and to treat heart failure and other heart conditions.
Studies have shown that people with heart disease, dementia, diabetes, and other illnesses have lower than normal levels of coenzyme Q10. While CoQ10 can be found in some of the foods we eat, we don’t get as much as the body needs, especially as we age.
The following foods contain varying amounts of CoQ10: salmon, tuna, red meat, organ meats (such as liver), whole grains, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, dairy products, strawberries, avocados, parsley, soybean oil, and olive oil.
While coenzyme Q10 is produced naturally by the body, as we age our body makes less of it. Also, the levels can be depleted by various medications, such as statins, and by smoking.
In addition to being important in keeping us healthy, many athletes take CoQ10 for energy, to fight inflammation, and to aid recovery. Recommended dosages can vary from 30 mg to 200 mg.
Since the coenzyme can lower blood sugar in diabetics or interfere with medication, if you are taking any prescription medication you should consult your doctor before taking it as a supplement. In general, CoQ10 supplements are not recommended for children.
Most people, I believe, can experience some great health benefits by adding CoQ10 to their daily supplements. In my opinion, we should all be taking one or more mineral and vitamin supplements. Adding CoQ10 to this regimen could be a great addition.
