Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10 for short is an antioxidant that your body produces naturally. It’s mostly concentrated in the mitochondria. That means it’s involved in energy production and powers biochemical reactions. In addition,CoQ10 has anti-inflammatory properties. Your cells use this compound to grow and maintain themselves – but levels do decrease as you age! It’s also been found lower in people with certain conditions like heart disease or taking cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins.

Heart Conditions – It has been shown to improve symptoms of congestive heart failure. It may also help reduce blood pressure. Some research also suggests that when combined with other nutrients, it might aid recovery in people who’ve had bypass and heart valve surgeries.

Diabetes – It has been shown to help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and total serum cholesterol levels in people with diabetes, which could lower their risk for heart disease.

Statin-induced Myopathy – Some research suggests that CoQ10 might help ease the muscle weakness and pain sometimes associated with taking statins. For statin drug users it can also raise your CoQ10 levels that are lowered by statin drugs.

Migraines – The recent research suggests that CoQ10 might decrease the frequency of these headaches.

Energy – Because CoQ10 is involved in energy production; it’s believed that this supplement might improve your physical performance. 

Those who suffer from heart failure or migraines might find relief by taking CoQ10 supplements. This nutrient is considered safe with few side effects, but it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice on how much you should take and for what duration of time-especially if those symptoms are severe!

Mild side effects might include digestive problems such as: Upper abdominal pain, Loss of appetite, Nausea and vomiting, Diarrhea, Headaches and dizziness, Insomnia, Fatigue, Skin itching or rashes, Irritability or agitation. Don’t use CoQ10 if you’re pregnant or breast-feeding without your doctor’s approval.

CoQ10 has been linked to improved aging, exercise performance, heart health, diabetes, fertility and migraines. It may also counteract adverse effects of statin medications. Typically, 90–200 mg of CoQ10 per day are recommended, though some conditions may require higher dosages.