Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10 and ubiquinone, is a fat-soluble antioxidant found naturally in the body, according to the Mayo Clinic. CoQ10 is a powerful protection unit built into the body, removing free radicals, DNA damage, and other forms of oxidative damage caused by the consumption of excess polyunsaturated fats. CoQ10 also plays a critical role in the energy-producing component of cells called the mitochondria. It helps to develop adenonsine triphospate (ATP), which is responsible for all muscle contractions.
Red Meat
Coenzyme Q10 is found highest in red meats, and is particularly high in organ meats such as liver and heart. Over cooking the meat reduces the amounts of CoQ10, boiling and frying appear to have the greatest negative impact on the CoQ10 content of the meats.
Oily Fish
Oily fish such as salmon, tuna, fresh sardines and mackerel also contain a relatively large amount of coenzyme Q10. As with red meats, overcooking the fish diminishes the amount of ubiquinone contained within the fish. Some people prefer eating raw fish as a way to maintain levels of CoQ10.
Plants
CoQ10 can also come from many plant-based products such as soybean oil, rapeseed oil and sesame oil. Other plant-based products containing CoQ10 include walnuts, peanuts, soybeans, broccoli, spinach, azuki beans, wheat germ and whole grains. Eating these foods raw provides the greatest amounts of coenzyme Q10, as heating changes the qualities of the enzyme.
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