Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a nutrient that occurs naturally in the body. It is an anti-oxidant and is anti-inflammatory. CoQ10 is found in every cell in your body and is needed in order 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, pharmaceutical companies would be fighting over the patent.”
What benefits have been discovered from this enzyme? It has been shown by research to be important in helping to prevent many diseases and also has been used to treat many different conditions. It is important in the prevention of heart disease, cancers, muscular dystrophy, periodontal disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, migraine headaches, age related macular degeneration, stomach ulcers, high cholesterol, high blood sugar and various neurological disorders. The 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 diseases have lower than normal levels of coenzyme Q10. While CoQ10 can be found in some of the foods we eat, we do not get as much as the body needs, especially as we get older.
The following foods do have varying amounts of CoQ10: salmon, tuna, red meat, organ meats (as liver), whole grains, spinach, broccoli, cauliflower, peanuts, Walnuts, eggs, dairy, strawberries, avocados, parsley, soybean oil, and olive oil.
While coenzyme Q10 is produced naturally by the body, as we age, less of it is made by our body. In addition, the levels can be depleted by various medications, such as statin drugs, and by smoking.
Besides being important in keeping us healthy, many athletes take CoQ10 for energy, to combat inflammation, and to help in recovery. Recommended dosages may range from 30 mgs up to 200 mgs.
Since the coenzyme could lower blood sugar in diabetics, or interfere with medications, if you are taking a prescription drug, you should consult with your doctor before taking it as a supplement. Generally, CoQ10 supplements are not recommended for children.
Most people, I believe, can experience excellent health benefits by adding CoQ10 to their daily supplements. In my opinion, we all should be taking one or more mineral and vitamin supplements. Adding CoQ10 to this regimen could be an awesome addition.