CoQ10 is a compound found in the human body and certain dietary sources that is necessary for energy production and possesses antioxidant properties. It is recommended for those with CoQ10 deficiency, heart disease, and age-related conditions, but can interfere with certain medications. Side effects are generally mild.
CoQ10, or coenzyme Q10, is a naturally occurring compound in the human body. In fact, it is necessary to produce adenosine-5-triphosphate, the main fuel source used by the mitochondria of each cell for energy and to make proteins. CoQ10 is also found in abundance in organs that require the most energy to function, such as the liver and heart. For this reason, it is available in certain dietary sources, such as fish and organ meats.
CoQ10 is known to possess antioxidant properties, which means it can prevent DNA mutation and cell damage by neutralizing free radicals. As such, CoQ10 has become a popular dietary supplement that can purportedly help prevent or treat a variety of health conditions. Additionally, CoQ10 is credited with increasing energy and stamina, as well as providing increased immunity.
CoQ10 is often recommended to help make up for a CoQ10 deficiency due to metabolic and mitochondrial disorders, such as Kearns-Sayre syndrome. In fact, supplementation is also appropriate for the elderly, who also tend to produce low levels of this substance. Additionally, CoQ10 is sometimes suggested to help control secondary symptoms associated with diabetes, such as poor glucose metabolism, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. CoQ10 is also recommended to help prevent cardiomyopathy, or damage to the heart from chemotherapy drugs such as atracycline or adriamycin. It is also often given to support recovery after heart surgery, such as coronary artery bypass grafting.
There is increasing evidence that CoQ10 may play an important role in the prevention of heart disease. Numerous studies have shown the compound’s ability to improve cellular energy production and blood flow circulation in patients with congestive heart failure, including those recovering from recent heart attacks. Researchers attribute this benefit to the antioxidant action of CoQ10, in addition to its apparent ability to deter blood clots.
There is also evidence to suggest that CoQ10 may help prevent or treat several age-related conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, macular degeneration, and Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, studies in women with breast cancer indicate that CoQ10 supplementation in combination with other antioxidants (ie, vitamins C, E, and selenium) and essential fatty acids may reduce the size of tumors. In men, CoQ10 supplementation seems to trigger better fertility by increasing sperm count. Other therapeutic uses for this compound that are currently being evaluated include the potential treatment of HIV/AIDS, muscular dystrophy, chronic fatigue, migraine headaches, kidney disease, asthma, and prostate cancer.
Known side effects of CoQ10 supplementation are generally mild and most commonly include nausea, diarrhea, and heartburn. Allergic reactions have also been reported, although they are rare. However, CoQ10 can interfere with other medications. For example, it can reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners and beta-blockers like warfarin and timolol, respectively. Therefore, if you are taking these or any other medications, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before supplementing with CoQ10.
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