Top 5 Mind-Blowing Benefits of CoQ10 You didn’t know about!

Have you been feeling very fatigued recently and don't know why?

As we age, the levels of CoQ10, a coenzyme naturally produced in healthy cells, decline, resulting in a deficiency. There are numerous reasons for reduced Coenzyme Q10 production, including age and some drugs such as statins for cholesterol. 

So, what is Coenzyme Q10?

CoQ10, also known as Coenzyme Q10 or ubiquinone, is a natural substance in our bodies that's vital for life. It's a fat-soluble molecule similar to a vitamin, and it's crucial for producing energy.

Let's examine how CoQ10's dual nature can benefit us.

1. CoQ10 as an energy producer and Heart Health

CoQ10 is produced naturally in the body, supports heart health by boosting circulation, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cardiovascular function. As we age, CoQ10 levels decrease, affecting the energy production crucial for the heart's optimal functioning. When there's a deficiency, heart cells struggle to perform efficiently due to insufficient energy supply, potentially impacting overall cardiac health.

2. CoQ10 Antioxidant and Anti-Aging Benefits

CoQ10 plays a crucial role in the body. This antioxidant protects cells from oxidative damage, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and slowing down the aging process. Additionally, CoQ10 acts as a supplement for repairing skin damage caused by oxidation, helping to combat premature aging of the skin.

So certainly! CoQ10 supplements can aid in reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and provide UV protection for the skin.

3. Boosting energy levels and Enhanced exercise performance

Are you an athlete or a fitness freak? This might interest you.

CoQ10 optimizes exercise performance by increasing energy production and minimizing muscular tiredness, which is very useful for athletes. It serves as the basis for the production of ATP, the primary energy source for cells, which can boost energy levels, exercise performance, and muscle repair from exercise-induced injury.

4. Brain Health Support 

Some elderly people often face confusion, forgetting family members' names, and difficulty recognizing familiar people, leading to stress and misunderstandings in daily tasks. It may be due to the deterioration of brain functions from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson's disease. CoQ10 has been linked to improved cognitive function and may help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. It also helps support overall brain health by protecting cells from oxidative damage.

5. Enhancing fertility 

According to research, oxidative stress from pollution, sedentary lifestyles, and work stress is linked to infertility in both men and women. Owing to its antioxidant properties, CoQ10 helps reduce oxidative stress, which may improve the quality of female eggs and the motility and quality of male sperm.

CoQ10 Dietary Sources and Forms

• Natural sources include oily fish, organ meats, and whole grains.
• Supplements may help people with certain health issues or medication interactions.
• Available forms include tablets, soft gel capsules, oral spray, cosmetics, and hard-shell capsules.

Ubiquinol- form of CoQ10:

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) exists in two forms within the body: ubiquinone and ubiquinol. Ubiquinone is the oxidized form, while ubiquinol is the reduced form. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) undergoes a reduction process in the body, resulting in the conversion of CoQ10 to ubiquinol.

Ubiquinol serves as the dynamic, antioxidant version of CoQ10, playing a crucial role in cellular health by counteracting free radicals and assisting in energy generation.

CoQ10 Safety Overview:

• Generally safe, it has mild side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
• Not recommended for pregnancy or nursing without doctor consent.
• May interact with medications given for chemotherapy, blood pressure, or blood-thinning.
• Additionally, statins, fibric acid derivatives, beta-blockers, and tricyclic antidepressants might lower CoQ10 levels.

It is crucial to highlight that, while CoQ10 has shown promise in these areas, additional research is required to completely grasp its potential advantages. Individuals should see a healthcare expert before beginning CoQ10 supplements, especially if they have underlying health concerns or are using drugs.

References:

*        https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/coenzyme-q10#

*        https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-coenzyme-q10/art-20362602#

*        Kumar, A., Kaur, H., Devi, P., & Mohan, V. (2009). Role of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in cardiac disease, hypertension and Meniere-like syndrome. Pharmacology & therapeutics, 124(3), 259–268. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pharmthera.2009.07.003

*         Agarwal, A., Saleh, R. A., & Bedaiwy, M. A. (2003). Role of reactive oxygen species in the pathophysiology of human reproduction. Fertility and sterility, 79(4), 829–843. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0015-0282(02)04948-8