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Coenzyme q-10
Coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ10) is an enzyme found in every cell in the body and is also
known as ubiquinone, derived from the word ubiquitous, which means “existing
or being everywhere, or in all places, at the same time.” Coenzyme Q-10 transforms
food into adenosine triphosphase (ATP), energy required for the body’s cell
growth, and through this process aids metabolic reactions.
CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free
radicals, and preventing cancer growth. Antioxidants are found in fruits and
vegetables, and the body also produces its own, however, the levels found decline
over time due to environment, lifestyle, and aging.
CoQ10 boosts energy levels, improves heart function, prevents and cures gum
disease, boosts the immune system, and aids weight loss effort as it ensures
efficient energy production at the cellular level.
Studies indicate that CoQ10 may be effective against heart disease, heart failure,
breast cancer, Parkinson’s disease, high blood pressure, and in the fight against
AIDS due to its benefits to the immune system. Patients with congestive heart
failure and other cardiovascular disease have lower levels of CoQ10 in the heart
tissue than healthy people. CoQ10 has proven to assist in the prevention and
treatment of cardiovascular disease and has been approved in Japan for the treatment
of congestive heart failure. CoQ10 supplementation can improve athletic performance
and physical exercise reduces natural levels of CoQ10. Overweight people have
low levels of CoQ10 due to improper nutrition, and supplementation may enable
them to lose weight due to the way CoQ10 speeds up the metabolism of fats. Gum
tissue affected by gingivitis is deficient in CoQ10 and supplementation has
proven to reduce inflammation, bleeding, and depth of pockets in the gums.
Coenzyme Q10 is found in many foods, but levels are highest in organ meats
such as heart, liver and kidney, as well as in beef, soy oil, sardines, mackerel,
and peanuts. CoQ10 levels in human organs peak around 20 years and then decline
rapidly. The recommended daily dosage of CoQ10 for healthy maintenance is 30
mg, though considerably higher amounts are required for the treatment of the
various diseases for which supplementation is beneficial. CoQ10 should be taken
with a meal to ensure proper absorption.
Side effects of CoQ10 include mild insomnia, elevated levels of liver enzymes,
rashes, nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, sensitivity to light, irritability,
headache, heartburn, and fatigue, however, no serious side effects have been
reported and CoQ10 appears to be quite safe as a nutrition supplement. CoQ10
takes about 4 to 8 weeks to build up in the body and to accomplish noticeable
effects.
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