Coenzyme Q 10, CoQ10, is a vitamin-like substance essential for producing energy. It is found in every cell in your body. CoQ10 shows strong antioxidant activity and therefore protects cells from free radical damage. Hypoglycemia occurs when your blood sugar levels fall too low. Severe hypoglycemia has the potential to cause brain damage and eventually death. CoQ10 produces a hypoglycemic effect. Therefore, you should take these supplements with care and under the supervision of your doctor.
CoQ10 and Blood Sugar
People with diabetes sometimes take CoQ10 supplements in the hope of lowering blood sugar levels. There is some concern that CoQ10 can cause a fast drop in blood sugar, producing symptoms of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia. Two clinical studies at University of Maryland Medical Center showed no impact of CoQ10 supplements on blood sugar levels in diabetic individuals. However, consult your doctor or pharmacist before you take CoQ10 or any other supplements.
Effects on Glycemic Control
In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, J.E. Henriksen, M.D., and colleagues at Odense University Hospital, Denmark, investigated the hypoglycemic effects of CoQ10, also called ubiquinone, in patients with type 1 diabetes. The results showed no benefits on glycemic control and insulin requirements, suggesting that the use of ubiquinone is not associated with increased risk of hypoglycemia.
Dosage
Daily doses of 30 to 200 mg of CoQ10 appear as safe and effective, according to Steven D. Ehrlich, a naturopathic physician from the University of Maryland Medical Center. The fat-soluble nutrient coenzyme Q 10 requires some fat for absorption. However, the amount of fat required in a meal for optimal absorption is unknown. Talk with your doctor to learn whether your child can use this supplement as well.
Side Effects
Taking supplements without a doctor's supervision can lead to serious side effects and drug interactions. Coenzyme Q10 supplements are generally considered safe and cause no obvious side effects; however, you might sometimes experience stomach cramps, stomach upset and vomiting after taking it. Safety studies of CoQ10 are not conducted on pregnant and lactating women. Therefore, avoid CoQ10 supplements during pregnancy and when you are breast-feeding.
References
- MedlinePlus: Coenzyme Q-10
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypoglycemia; Steven D. Ehrlich; February 4, 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Coenzyme Q10; Steven D. Ehrlich; March 20, 2009
- "Diabetic Medicine: A Journal of the British Diabetic Association"; Impact of Ubiquinone (Coenzyme Q10) Treatment on Glycaemic Control, Insulin Requirement and Well-being in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus; J.E. Henriksen, et al.; April 1999
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