“In animal studies, mean life span has been increased by as much as 50% through CoQ10 supplementation. More important…the longer living animals remained more active and younger looking with bright eyes, glossy coats and healthy skin. And more youthful appearance lasted right up to the end of their lives.” (1)

“The Miracle Nutrient”                                                           Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10 and ubiquinone, is an important vitamin-like nutrient referred to by some researchers as “the miracle nutrient” because of the positive results seen in research done with a variety of conditions. Although the body can absorb CoQ10 from food or synthesize the nutrient from other coenzymes (Q1 through Q9), that ability declines with age as do body levels of CoQ10. Restoring youthful levels through supplementation may correct many conditions associated with the aging process.                                                           Enhance Immune Function Scientists now attach crucial importance to the link between the immune system and aging. A series of studies show that CoQ10 may have dramatic immune-enhancing effects. Because of its anti-oxidant activity, it can also neutralize free radicals associated with chronic degenerative diseases. (1)   Energy Production Coenzyme Q10 is a nutrient that is essential for the body to turn food into energy. It plays a critical role in the body’s production of ATP, the basic energy molecule of all cells. (1) Adequate CoQ10 levels are needed in order for the heart to keep up its constant production of energy. Its role in the body is similar to that of a spark plug in a car engine. Just as the car cannot function without the initial spark, the human body cannot function without CoQ10. Because Co Q10 is intimately involved with energy production, it may also be an effective weight loss aid for those who are deficient.(1,3)

Heart Support CoQ10 is one of the most important nutrients for main-taining the health of the heart. This energy-demanding organ con-tains twice as much CoQ10 as any other organ or tissue in the body.(2) A wide range of heart conditions benefit from CoQ10 supplementation, including angina, mitral valve prolapse, and perhaps cardiomyopathies and congestive heart failure. CoQ10 has also been found to lower blood pressure while also raising protective HDL cholesterol and lowering total cholesterol. Paradoxically, some medications thought to promote heart health may lower CoQ10 levels, particularly statin medications. Individuals on cholesterol-lowering statins (e.g.Lipitor, Crestor, and Zocor), cardiovascular drugs, diabetic pre-scriptions and tricyclic antidepressants should supplement with CoQ10. Co Q10 Supplementation Although CoQ10 is found in all plant and animal sources, optimal doses cannot be achieved through common diets. Organ meats are the richest source of CoQ10, but few eat these foods regularly. Supplementation is therefore needed to achieve optimal CoQ10 levels. The therapeutic dosage range of CoQ10 is 30 to 400 mg per day. Consuming CoQ10 with an oil or fat improves absorption. If you are taking any medications, or are using CoQ10 to help with any health condition, take it with the guidance of your health care practitioner.

References

1.   Bliznakof E, Hunt G, The Miracle Nutrient Coenzyme Q10. Bantam, 1987.
2.   Balch, Phyllis A, C.N.C., and Balch, James F., M.D. Prescription for Nutritional Healing.  New York, New York: Avery, Putnam Penguin, 2000. Pages 59-62, 564-566.
3.   Van Gaal L, DeLeeuw I, Vadhanavikit S, Folkers K, Exploratory Study of Coenzyme Q10 in Obesity. Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q, Vol 4, p 369-73, Elsevier Science Publishers BV, 1984.