What are the health benefits of CoQ10?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is responsible for fueling our mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. CoQ10 also protects cells from oxidative damage and pathogenic bacteria or viruses. It is present in all cells of our body, but the highest concentrations are found in the most energy-intensive organs, including the heart, kidneys, lungs, and liver.
Why is CoQ10 essential?
As the main antioxidant in cells, CoQ10 protects and nourishes mitochondria. Without sufficient CoQ10, ATP production (the energy currency of cells) decreases, and oxidation and dysfunction increase.
As we age, cardiovascular diseases become more frequent, and it is no coincidence that CoQ10 production also decreases with age. Thus, older populations appear to be deficient in this key element.
Key benefits of CoQ10
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
- Increased energy levels
- Antioxidant protection
- Reduced oxidative stress
- Blood sugar regulation
- Respiratory function
- Chronic fatigue
- Muscle fatigue
- Cognitive support
- Headache support
- Fertility health
Ubiquinone vs. Ubiquinol – Which is better?
Two types of CoQ10 exist naturally in the body: ubiquinone and ubiquinol. Both can be found in supplement form. While both forms of CoQ10 are beneficial, there are some key considerations when choosing a supplement form.
Ubiquinone in the body acts as an oxidized form of CoQ10 and as a supplement, it remains fat-soluble and is unstable. This form can be converted into an active form known as ubiquinol – more easily used by the body. Aging and other factors, including stress, oxidative damage, and increased use of prescription medications inhibit the process of converting ubiquinone to ubiquinol in the body.
Why is active ubiquinol more effective?
Active ubiquinol is highly effective in helping to reduce cellular oxidation. Clinical studies have shown that, compared to standard CoQ10 supplements, ubiquinol is 8 times better absorbed into the blood, reduces exercise-induced fatigue by 90%, and slows aging by 40%.