For people with elevated blood pressure, lowering it is critical. High blood pressure is a risk factor for stroke, heart attack and kidney disease, among others. Treatments for lowering blood pressure include medications, diet and lifestyle alterations. Diet and lifestyle measures are the healthiest, since dealing with side effects and cost of medications can be problematic. Consuming coenzyme Q10 has been proposed as an option to assist with lowering blood pressure.
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is the pressure or measurement of force applied to the walls of blood vessels. It is measured in two numbers --- systolic and diastolic. Systolic blood pressure is the first number mentioned; it is the pressure of the heart contracting. The second number measures diastolic pressure, which is the pressure exerted when the heart relaxes. If your blood pressure is higher than 140 mm Hg over 90, you should work on lowering your numbers.
Coenzyme Q10
CoQ10 is a fat-soluble substance present in most every cell of the body. It is located within the energy-producing part of the cell and assists with energy production. CoQ10 functions as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage, and assists with muscle contraction and protein formation.
Mechanism
Several ideas exist for the role CoQ10 plays in reducing blood pressure, as discussed in a study in the 2009 journal "Pharmacy and Therapeutics." Since CoQ10 is an antioxidant, it is thought to decrease substances that prevent the blood vessels from relaxing. By destroying those molecules, the blood vessels relax and allow blood to flow through more easily. Another possible function of CoQ10 is decreasing the viscosity of the blood. A lower viscosity reduces the resistance and pressure of the blood flow. CoQ10 may also help to widen the blood vessels, which provides more space for blood to flow.
Sources and Recommendations
CoQ10 food sources include organ meats, oily fish and whole grains. CoQ10 is found in supplemental form as well, as an option for vegetarians or for people who do not obtain adequate amounts through their diet. Consult your doctor for specific dosage guidelines for lowering your blood pressure, as every situation is different. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests 30 to 200 mg per day as guidelines for CoQ10 supplementation for healthy people over the age of 19.
