Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that causes brain damage, gradually reducing your ability to function. It results in memory loss, disorientation and makes it hard to function in social situations. Women, older individuals and people with a family history of Alzheimer's disease are more likely to develop this condition. Coenzyme Q10 may help with Alzheimer's treatment.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is naturally found in whole grains, organ meats and oily fish. It is an antioxidant that is needed for muscle formation, energy production, muscle contraction and immune function. It may help to prevent or treat a number of health conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and Alzheimer's disease.
CoQ10 and Alzheimer's
Although supplemental CoQ10 cannot prevent or cure Alzheimer's disease, it may slow down the progression of Alzheimer's disease, helping people with this condition have a higher quality of life for a longer period of time, according to a study at Duke University Medical Center and presented at the AcademyHealth Meeting in 2004.
Other Alzheimer's Treatments
Memantine and cholinesterase inhibitors are medications commonly used to treat Alzheimer's disease. Some supplements, including omega-3 fats and vitamin E, may also help slow down the decline of people with this condition, according to MayoClinic.com. Exercise, social engagement and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fats may help maintain the health of people with Alzheimer's disease.
Considerations
Coenzyme Q10 supplements may cause side effects including an upset stomach, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, itching, heartburn, fatigue, irritability and insomnia. These supplements may also interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, blood pressure medication, cholesterol medications, chemotherapy medications and the beta-blocker timolol, so speak with your doctor before taking CoQ10.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Alzheimer's Disease; January 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Coenzyme Q10; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD; March 2009
- MayoClinic.com; Coenzyme Q10; April 2011
- National Library of Medicine; Coenzyme Q10: A Promising Treatment for Alzheimer's Disease?; A.J. Young, et al.; 2004
- "Neuropsychiatric Disease Treatment"; Coenzyme Q10 Effects in Neurodegenerative Disease; Meredith Spindler, et al.; November 2009
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