As an antioxidant, coenzyme Q10 may help protect your cells from sustaining oxidative damage. Your physician may recommend increasing your coenzyme Q10 intake if you have a personal or family history of heart disease, diabetes or periodontal disease. Consult your physician to determine the recommended dosage of coenzyme Q10 you should take each day.
Adult Dosage
The recommended dose of coenzyme Q10 for adults is 30 to 200 mg each day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Coenzyme Q10 is a fat-soluble nutrient and should be taken with a meal or snack that contains fat to help your body fully absorb this antioxidant. Though a variety of over-the-counter preparations of coenzyme Q10 are available, soft gels are typically absorbed more readily by your body. Additionally, your body may be able to use coenzyme Q10 more efficiently if you take this supplement at night rather than during the day.
Pediatric Dosage
Unless otherwise instructed by a medical professional, children younger than 18 years of age should not take coenzyme Q10 supplement. If treatment with coenzyme Q10 is appropriate for your child, talk with his pediatrician to determine how much of this antioxidant to give your child.
Periodontal Dosage
If you have periodontal disease -- also known as gum disease -- your doctor may recommend treatment with a coenzyme Q10 oral rinse. Adults should rinse the mouth one to two times daily with approximately 1 tsp. of coenzyme Q10, the UMMC explains. After rinsing your mouth, spit the remaining fluid out of your mouth into a sink or trash receptacle.
Dietary Sources
In addition to an oral rinse and dietary supplements, you may also increase your intake of this antioxidant by consuming coenzyme Q10-rich foods. Excellent dietary sources of coenzyme Q10 include oily fish, whole grains and organ meats. In fact, just 3 oz. of herring provides 2.3 mcg of coenzyme Q10, the Linus Pauling Institute reports. Vegetarian dietary options that help increase your coenzyme Q10 intake include broccoli, cauliflower, peanuts, sesame seeds, pistachio nuts, oranges and strawberries.
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