Vitamins and Minerals > Coenzyme Q-10

Coenzyme Q-10 is a vitamin like substance whose actions in the body resemble those of vitamin E. It may be an even more powerful antioxidant. There are ten common substances designated coenzyme Qs, but coenzyme Q-10 is the only one found in human tissue. This substance plays a critical role in the production of energy in every cell of the body. It aids circulation, stimulates the immune system, increases tissue oxygenation, and has vital anti-aging effects. Deficiencies of coenzyme Q-10 have been linked to periodontal disease, diabetes, and muscular dystrophy.

Research has revealed that supplemental coenzyme Q-10 has the ability to counter histamine, and therefore is beneficial for people with allergies, asthma, or respiratory disease. Many health care professionals use is to treat anomalies of mental function such as those associated with schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease. It is also beneficial in fighting obesity, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes.

Coenzyme Q-10 appears to be a giant step forward in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease. A six-year study conducted by scientists at the University of Texas found that people being treated for congestive heart failure who took coenzyme Q-10 in addition to conventional therapy had a 75-percent chance of survival after three years, compared with a 25-percent survival rate for those using conventional therapy alone. In a similar study by the University of Texas and the Center for Adult Diseases in Japan, coenzyme Q-10 was shown to be able to lower high blood pressure without medication or dietary changes.

In addition to its use in fighting cardiovascular disease, coenzyme Q-10 has been shown to be effective in reducing mortality in experimental animals afflicted with tumors and leukemia. Some doctors give their patients coenzyme Q-10 to reduce the side effects of cancer chemotherapy. Coenzyme Q-10 is widely used in Japan. More than 12 million people in that country are reportedly taking it at the direction of their physicians for treatment of heart disease (it strengthens the heart muscle) and high blood pressure, and also to enhance the immune system. Research in Japan has shown that coenzyme Q-10 also protects the stomach lining and duodenum, and may help heal duodenal ulcers. The amount of coenzyme Q-10 present in the body declines with age, so it should be supplemented in the diet, especially by people who are over the age of fifty.

Sources

Mackerel, salmon, and sardines contain the largest amounts of coenzyme Q-10. It is also found in beef, peanuts, and spinach.

Comments

Coenzyme Q-10 is oil soluble and is best absorbed when taken with oily or fatty foods, such as fish. Be cautious when purchasing coenzyme Q-10. Not all products offer it in its purest form. Its natural color is dark bright yellow to orange, and it has very little taste in the powdered form. It should be kept away from heat and light. Pure coenzyme Q-10 is perishable and deteriorates in temperatures above 1150F. A liquid or oil form is preferable. Look for a brand that contains a small amount of vitamin E as this helps to preserve the coenzyme Q-10.