Coenzyme Q10 What does it do? Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from free radicals1. Coenzyme Q10 is also called ubiquinone, a name that signifies its (widespread) ubiquitous distribution in the human body. As a coenzyme, this nutrient aids metabolic reactions, such as the complex process of transforming food into ATP, the energy the body runs on.
Virtually every cell of the human body contains coenzyme Q10. The mitochondria, the area of cells where energy is produced, contain the most coenzyme Q10. The heart and liver, because they contain the most mitochondria per cell, have the greatest amount of coenzyme Q10.
Coenzyme Q10 helps people with congestive heart failure
2—an effect proven in double-blinded research.3 Coenzyme Q10 may take several months to show beneficial results. People with congestive heart failure taking coenzyme Q10 should NOT stop taking it suddenly since sudden withdrawal may exacerbate the symptoms of congestive heart failure.Angina patients taking 150 mg per day of coenzyme Q10 report a greater ability to exercise without problems.
4 This has been confirmed in independent investigations.5Where is it found? Coenzyme Q10 is found in spinach, broccoli, nuts, meat, and fish.
In what conditions might coenzyme Q10 be supportive?
• angina • diabetes
• HIV support Who is likely to be deficient? Deficiency is poorly understood, but it may be caused by synthesis problems in the body rather than an insufficiency in the diet. Low blood levels have been reported in those with heart failure, cardiomyopathy (another heart condition), gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), and AIDS. Coenzyme Q10 levels are generally lower in older individuals. The test used to assess coenzyme Q10 status is not routinely available from medical laboratories.
How much should I take? Adult levels of supplementation are usually 30-90 mg per day, although individuals with specific health conditions (with the involvement of a nutritionally oriented physician) may supplement with higher levels. Taking coenzyme Q10 supplements with a little fat, such as olive oil or peanut butter, will improve absorption of this nutrient.
Are there any side effects or interactions? Congestive heart failure patients who are taking coenzyme Q10 should not discontinue taking coenzyme Q10 supplements without first consulting a doctor.
References:
1. Weber C, Jakobsen TS, Mortensen SA, et al. Antioxidative effect of dietary coenzyme Q10 in human blood plasma. Internat J Vit Nutr Res 1994;64:311-15.
2. Mortensen SA, Vadhanavikit S, Baandrup U, Folkers K. Long-term coenzyme Q10 therapy: a major advance in the management of resistant myocardial failure. Drug Exptl Clin Res 1985;11:581-93.
3. Morisco C, Trimarco B, Condorelli M. Effect of coenzyme Q10 in patients with congestive heart failure: a long-term multicenter randomized study. Clin Invest 1993;71:S134-6.
4. Kamikawa T, Kobayashi A, Yamashita T, et al. Effects of coenzyme Q10 on exercise tolerance in chronic stable angina pectoris. Am J Cardiol 1985;56:247.
5. Mortensen SA. Perspectives on therapy of cardiovascular diseases with coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone). Clin Invest 1993;71:s116–23 [review].
Copyright © 1998 Virtual Health, LLC
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only.