Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10 or ubiquinone, is an antioxidant and obligatory part of the energy production system. It is essential for the normal functioning of muscles, including the heart muscle. CoQ10 is primarily derived from intracellular synthesis, although it can also be acquired through diet. CoQ10 levels decrease with age and it may contribute to the development of various diseases.
Significance
According to the study conducted by Quinzii et al, published in "Neurochem Res" on November 10, 2006, CoQ10 is important in muscle function and coordination. The significance of CoQ10 in alleviating muscle aches is attributed to its' location in the structural part of cells used to produce energy. These cell organelles, known as mitochondria, are also found in muscle tissue. There, CoQ10 functions to protect organs from damage caused by oxygen.
Function
CoQ10 is vital to all body processes, as it is used by cells to extract energy from food. According to a study conducted by Belardinelli et al, published in the "European Heart Journal" on August 1, 2006, CoQ10 is an integral component of the body's energy production system. Thereby, the presence of adequate amounts of Q10 has been reported to help decrease energy depletion. Belardinelli et al conclude that CoQ10 may have fundamental effects on the body's energy flow, particularly relating to cells that require high metabolic demand, such as cardiac muscle cells.
Potential
CoQ10 shows a promising role in combating fatigue and supporting exercise performance. Belardinelli et al aimed to study the effect of CoQ10 and exercise training in chronic heart failure. That study reveals that oxygen species, known as free radicals, are responsible for exercise-induced oxidation that contributes to physical fatigue. Dr. Elizabeth Lipski, a board certified Clinical Nutritionist and author of the book "Digestive Wellness," regards CoQ10 as an essential supplementary nutrient for fatigue. Dr. Lipski notes that CoQ10 is necessary for energy production, proper immune function, and the repair and maintenance of body tissues. According to Mayo Clinic, however, further research is required to yield clear scientific evidence for such uses.
Supplementation
People who suffer from CoQ10 deficiency may benefit from oral supplements. This has been established by Mayo Clinic. According to the study conducted by Quinzii et al, supplementation can help correct internal imbalances and abnormalities in muscle cells and tissue. Supplementation of CoQ10, in the reduced form of ubiquinol, may improve muscle function and aches.
Considerations
Dr. Peter H. Langsjoen, a cardiologist with clinical expertise regarding the use of CoQ10, published a comprehensive report reviewing the role of the cholesterol lowering drugs known as statins and CoQ10 depletion. This report, as available from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration database, shows that common side effects such as fatigue and muscle pain can be caused by statins and may be linked to the depletion of CoQ10. According to a study by Langsjoen et al, published in "Bio Factors" on December 19, 2008, patients were advised to discontinue statin therapy and given supplemental CoQ10. These patients showed good improvement in muscle aches and fatigue. After an average of 28 months, skeletal muscle pain and weakness was reduced from 64 percent to 6 percent, and general fatigue was reduced from 84 percent to 16 percent.
References
- Bio Factors: Treatment of statin adverse effects with supplemental Coenzyme Q10 and statin drug discontinuation; Peter H. Langsjoen et al; December 2008
- "European Heart Journal"; Co-enzyme Q10 and exercise training in heart failure; Romualdo Belardinelli et al; August 2006
- The Environmental Illness Resource: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome By Elizabeth Lipski, PhD, CCN
- FDA: The clinical use of (statins) and associated depletion of coenzyme Ql0
- "Neurochem Res"; Human Coenzyme Q10 deficiency; Catarina M. Quinzii et al.; November 2006
Member Comments