Misinformation about coenzymes may be hazardous to your health. As important as diet and nutrition are to good health, it is also important to understand the terminology used by manufacturers of supplements and food products. Understanding the metabolic and nutritional role of coenzymes will help you become a better-informed consumer.
Identification
Coenzymes are organic compounds that work in conjunction with enzymes to accomplish metabolic functions. A well-known coenzyme is coenzyme Q10, which some believe promotes cardiac health. The American Heart Association notes that research indicates some heart failure patients have less CoQ10 than normal, but further studies are required to determine whether CoQ10 plays a role in cardiac health. Other coenzymes include the B vitamins.
Function
Often a coenzyme binds to an enzyme and acts as the catalyst that allows the enzyme to complete its mission or task. Sometimes coenzymes exist freely but still play a part in the chemical reaction caused by the enzyme. Vitamin coenzymes are required for the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
Types
In addition to coenzyme Q10, which helps regulate energy production in cells, coenzymes include biotin, coenzyme A, alpha lipoic acid and folic acid. Biotin, a B complex vitamin, is often suggested for healthy hair and skin and is involved in assisting enzyme synthesis of fatty acids, as is coenzyme A. Alpha lipoic acid supports antioxidant regeneration. Folic acid is an essential coenzyme involved in many metabolic functions, while niacin is a precursor to coenzymes and is important in energy transfer.
Considerations
Some diets have been shown to cause deficits of one or more important nutrients. Fad diets that depend on removing an entire category of nutrient or that are severely calorie-restricted can deplete stores of coenzymes. The B vitamin coenzymes are in meats, leafy green vegetables, grains and legumes. Biotin is found in egg yolk, nuts and liver. Vitamin B12, essential to good health, is found only in animal products. Folic acid is in dark green vegetables, beef products, eggs and whole grains. Many foods are fortified with folic acid, including bread, pasta products, rice and cereal.
Warning
Several serious health conditions have been linked to inadequate intake of specific coenzyme nutrients. A lack of folic acid in the early weeks of pregnancy can result in neural tube birth defects such as spina bifida, which involves incomplete closure of the spinal column. Folic acid deficiency in children and adults can stunt growth and cause anemia.
Lack of Vitamin B12, or the body's inability to absorb it, can result in a condition known as pernicious anemia, which involves a decrease in red blood cells. Vegans need to be especially vigilant in consuming Vitamin B12 supplements, because only animal products and supplements contain the vitamin.
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