What Is CoQ10 Deficiency?

Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is an oil-soluble substance found naturally in mitochondria. Your body uses CoQ10 to make adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, which serves as a major energy source for your cells and drives several biological processes. There are several serious conditions associated with CoQ10 deficiency. According to "The Coenzyme Q10 Phenomenon," if you have a CoQ10 deficiency, it is critical to diagnose and implement CoQ10 therapy as soon as possible to avoid the long-term health problems that are associated with CoQ10 deficiency.

Primary CoQ10 Deficiency

There are several conditions classified as a primary CoQ10 deficiency, including encephalomyopathy, a condition characterized by recurrent myoglobinuria, severe infantile multisystemic disease, cerebellar ataxia, leigh syndrome with growth retardation, ataxia and deafness, and isolated myopathy. According to "The Coenzyme Q10 Phenomenon," most patients with primary CoQ10 deficiency respond positively to CoQ10 therapies. However, patients diagnosed early have better recovery rates.

Low Serum or Tissue Levels of CoQ10

Besides the primary CoQ10 deficiencies, doctors attribute several other conditions to CoQ10 deficiency These conditions include Alzheimer's disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, hormone dependent cancers, insulin resistance, male infertility and sleep apnea. As with most medical conditions, multiple causes of the condition may exist. You should speak with your doctor about the specific causes of your condition and determine if a CoQ10 deficiency might contribute to or cause your condition.

CoQ10 Dosage

CoQ10 is an expensive supplement. According to "Coenzyme Q10: The Essence of Energy," the recommended dose for adults is 30 to 200 mg a day. Your should not take CoQ10 supplements with a high-fat meal, or your body may not properly absorb the CoQ10 supplement. In addition, taking CoQ10 supplements at night may help your body use the supplement more efficiently.

Dietary Sources

If you do not have a condition that depletes CoQ10 from your body, you can obtain sufficient amounts of CoQ10 from a balanced diet. The best source for CoQ10 is oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel and sardines. Organ meats such as liver, kidney and heart also have large amounts of CoQ10. Further, whole grains, spinach and broccoli are also good sources of CoQ10. However, the content of CoQ10 found in vegetables and grains is not as high as that found in meats.