The Coenzyme Q10 - CoQ10 - Connection

Imagine a nutrient that that could actually supercharge your cells. Now imagine that this nutrient provided you with improved health for both your heart and liver, as well as for neurological and blood sugar health. This amazing nutrient is known as coenzyme q10 (coq10), and according to studies, it may hold great benefits for your health.

The nutrient coenzyme Q10 (chemical name ubiquinone) was first identified around 60 years ago. While praised the world over, especially in Japanese culture, CoQ10 is gaining recognition as a powerful health-promoting nutrient in the U.S.

How Does CoQ10 Benefit Your Cells?

CoQ10 is present throughout the human body. It aids metabolic reactions, such as the transformation of food into ATP, the energy used by the body. Cell mitochondria (the cells' energy "power plants") show the greatest concentration of CoQ10. Those organs containing higher amounts of mitochondria per cell, such as the heart and liver, have the greatest amounts of CoQ10.

CoQ10, The Heart & Cholesterol

CoQ10 is a remarkably effective nutrient for heart health. Research dating back to the 1980s has shown that taking an adequate CoQ10 complex can benefit healthy blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health. Low blood levels of CoQ10 have been associated with poor blood pressure health in several studies.

CoQ10's benefits for the heart were illustrated in a study dealing with poor heart health, in which individuals were given either 2 mg per kg of body weight (typically 140 to 200 mg a day), or placebo for one year. It was noted that those given CoQ10 showed significant reduction in necessity for hospitalization or serious side effects, compared to the placebo group.

Recent studies have shown that there may be a connection between CoQ10 and cholesterol-lowering medication. Such medication may inihibit the production of CoQ10 in the body. As a result, those taking statins may develop problems with liver, nerve, muscle and heart health. Therefore, many physicians recommend taking CoQ10 supplements in the 200 mg to 400 mg per day range if taking statins.

Other Health Benefits of CoQ10

Recent studies have been conducted to determine the effects of coenzyme q10 for neurological health. For instance, a 2002 study published in the Archives of Neurology reported that CoQ10 effectively slowed down the progression of poor brain health. In the study, the patients receiving the highest doses of CoQ10 showed the greatest benefits.

Because CoQ10 assists energy production, its benefits may also include promoting gum health, as this area may require increased energy production. CoQ10 may also hold benefits for athletes, and some positive studies indicate that it helps with exercise performance.

Which Form of CoQ10 is Right For You?

It's important to realize that not all forms of CoQ10 are the same. Many common varieties employ a synthetic (or "semi-natural") form made from tobacco leaves. However, the "trans" form of CoQ10, which is processed naturally and through yeast fermentation, is identical to that produced by the body. This has been found to be the safest and most effective form.

The benefits of "trans" form coq10 may be strengthened further if taken in softgel form. Softgel technology provides a rice bran oil-based formulation, which provides your body with more potent levels of CoQ10, and also provides a higher level of absorption. Studies have shown that increased coq10 levels in the blood effectively provide support to the body in times of illness and physical stress.