Antioxidant Support

Coenzyme Q10 Background and Benefits

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an enzyme known chemically as a 1,4-benzoquinone. The “Q” in the name refers to the quinone chemical group, which is derived from aromatic compounds. The “10” refers to the 10 isoprenyl subunits in the tail of the CoQ10 molecule.

CoQ10 is a vitamin-like compound that’s found in most plant and animal cells, especially the mitochondria. It plays an essential role in generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is a requirement of aerobic respiration. Approximately 95 percent of the chemical energy generated by the human body comes from ATP, so the greatest concentration of CoQ10 is in organs such as the heart, kidney, and liver that have the highest requirements for energy.

Animal protein is the richest dietary source of CoQ10, especially chicken livers and hearts. Dairy products also contain CoQ10 but at much lower levels than meat. The best vegetable sources of CoQ10 include parsley and perilla. Professor Fredrick L. Crane et al isolated CoQ10 in 1957, and its chemical structure was established by Dr. Karl Folkers et al in 1958.

The capability of manufacturing CoQ10 in commercial quantities and purity did not exist until the 1980s when the number of studies on CoQ10 began to increase dramatically. These studies show that CoQ10 exhibits strong antioxidant activity, which allows it to support cellular health and function.

Uses of Coenzyme Q10

One of the most common uses of CoQ10 is to support the effects of aging. It is also used to support heart health, maintain healthy cholesterol, and support the body’s natural ability to manage and regulate blood sugar levels.

Age support

Free radicals are ions that damage cells due to their high reactivity with oxygen. Antioxidants like CoQ10 bind to free radicals, allowing them to be safely eliminated from the body. This action allows CoQ10 to help defy the visible effects of aging.

Metabolic Syndrome Support

Studies also show that CoQ10 may help support the body’s natural ability to manage and regulate blood sugar levels.

Heart Health Support

Several studies on CoQ10 show that it supports heart health by helping to maintain healthy circulation.

Healthy Cholesterol Profile

CoQ10 is often used to help support a healthy cholesterol profile.

Signs You May Need Coenzyme Q10

The most common signs that you may have a CoQ10 deficiency are related to the cardiovascular system. Additional indications that you may need CoQ10 supplements include metabolic syndrome, poor gum health, and poor digestive health. People who take statin drugs to lower cholesterol may also have low CoQ10 levels since these drugs inhibit the biosynthesis of CoQ10. Additional signs of a CoQ10 deficiency include fatigue and muscle aches.


Health Articles

Why CoQ10 and GG Make the Perfect Combination for Statin Users

The Video That Every Statin User Should Watch An Interview with Dr. Joel Kahn and Dr. Barrie Tan Their discussion covers key points you need to know: CoQ10 is the powerhouse of the cells and essential for your body - particularly your ...

Other Ingredients That May Be Of Interest

Ubiquinol CoQ10

Super Antioxidant for Energy and Heart Health Ubiquinol CoQ10 Health Benefits Ubiquinol should not be confused with the oxidised form of Coenzyme Q10, known as Ubiquinone. It is the active, non-oxidised form of CoQ10 and is biologically identical to the Ubiquinol in your body, meaning it's easily...

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