A complete diet is a major part of living a healthy lifestyle. If you have concerns over your nutritional intake, you may choose to make modifications to your diet or take dietary supplements. Coenzyme Q10 has gained a reputation as a supplement promising important health benefits. According to PRWeb, annual sales of this dietary supplement are expected to top $133 million by 2015.
Definition
Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10 is synthesized in the human body and found in virtually every cell. Its abundance is due to its role in cellular respiration and energy production. All cells need energy to carry out essential life functions. CoQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant which can help protect cells from damage from free radicals, explains the Linus Pauling Institute.
Benefits
In addition to its role in body function, a diet that includes CoQ10 can provide other health benefits. A 2002 study in the "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition" found that CoQ10 lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure. These are the top and bottom reading of your blood pressure, respectively. The study also found that CoQ10 may support blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes. Other applications include management of psoriasis symptoms, explains a 2009 study in the journal "Nutrition."
Dietary Sources
According to the Linus Pauling Institute, therapeutic doses of CoQ10 are 100 to 300 mg. Dietary sources include beef, poultry and canola oil. However, the amounts found even in rich sources are considerably lower than therapeutic doses. A 3-oz. serving of beef contains only 2.6 mg of CoQ10. Fruits and vegetables only provide minimal amounts. Whole Health MD recommends 60 to 100 mg a day for heart disease prevention.
Side Effects
Any addition to your diet can potentially cause allergies or side effects. CoQ10 is no exception. According to the Drugsite Trust, you may experience gastrointestinal distress or nausea if you take a CoQ10 supplement. Because of its effect on the cardiovascular system, consult your doctor before taking CoQ10 if you are taking a beta blocker for blood pressure control, blood thinners or diabetes medication.
Guidelines
To get the most out of CoQ10, you need to follow some basic guidelines whether you are adding dietary sources to your diet or taking a supplement. CoQ10 is fat-soluble, which means that for best absorption it should be taken with fat. For meals, be aware that some cooking methods such as frying will diminish the amount of this nutrient in the foods you prepare. If you are uncertain about including it in your diet, consult your doctor.
References
- PRWeb: US & European Coenzyme Q10 Market to Exceed $133.3 Million by 2015, According to New Report by Global Industry Analysts, Inc.
- Linus Pauling Institute: Coenzyme Q10
- "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Coenzyme Q10 Improves Blood Pressure and Glycaemic Control: a Controlled Trial in Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes; J. Hodgson et al; November 2002
- "Nutrition"; Clinical and Biochemical Effects of Coenzyme Q(10), Vitamin E, and Selenium Supplementation to Psoriasis Patients; Z. Kharaeva et al; March 2009
- Whole Health MD: Coenzyme Q10
- Drugsite Trust: Coenzyme Q10 Side Effects
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