Coenzyme Q10 is a fat soluble vitamin-like structure found in the human body. Since adequate amounts are produced in the body, it is not considered an essential nutrient. For healthy individuals, it does not need to be consumed in the diet. However, supplemental forms of coenzyme Q10 may provide health benefits especially for populations at risk for deficiency. The elderly and individuals who choose to smoke may need additional supplementation due to the decrease in the body's ability to store coenzyme Q10 with age and depletion of stores with smoking. Medications and/or restrictive diets may also warrant a supplement. The National Institutes of Health indicates appropriate adult doses ranging from 50 to 1200 mg daily in divided doses have been used for research and traditional use. No serious side effects have been reported for 200 mg daily over a one year time frame and 100mg daily for up to six years. Potential side effects may include mild gastrointestinal distress, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, appetite suppression, insomnia and heartburn.
Heart Health
Coenzyme Q10 may provide a double shield against heart disease. The antioxidant role helps remove damaging free radicals from the body and a blood clotting reduction effect reduces risk of heart attacks and strokes. Supplemental doses may improve the symptoms and outcomes of cardiac surgery, heart attacks and congestive heart failure.
Since only preliminary research has been conducted, the American Heart Association does not recommend supplementation. More research is needed on dosage, timing, and safety of supplementation. Do not consume coenzyme Q10 without first consulting your physician.
Blood Pressure
After one to three months of supplementation, supplemental doses of coenzyme Q10 has shown a small reduction in systolic blood pressure. Low blood levels have been found in Individuals with elevated blood pressure possibly indicating a need for supplementation. Individuals on blood pressure lowering medications should use caution with supplements. The combination of pharmaceuticals and supplements may reduce blood pressure to a dangerous level.
Cancer Risk
The body uses coenzyme Q10 for cell growth, cell protection, and as an antioxidant. It may help improve the immune system and fight back against cancer cells. When combined with other antioxidants, coenzyme Q10 showed potential in tumor size reduction, pain alleviation, and decreased recurrence of some cancers including colon, lung, pancreas, kidney, lymphoma, and prostate. It has also shown cancer prevention power. The National Cancer Institute advises patients to not consume coenzyme Q10 as a supplement unless instructed by a physician. Further studies are needed to investigate the effects the supplement has on cancer treatment including chemotherapy.
Athletic Peformance
Supplemental doses of coenzyme Q10 may improve athletic performance especially in endurance sports by reducing oxidative stress. During endurance sports, athletes are commonly plagued by muscle fatigue caused by oxidative stress. Coenzyme Q10 can help decrease oxidative stress thus boosting performance.
Brain Health
Coenzyme Q10 has shown promise for migraines sufferers and Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease patients. Coenzyme Q10 may help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines. Supplemental doses may also reduce cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's and improve overall daily function for Parkinson's patients.
Oral Health
Coenzyme Q10 has been added to some mouth washes to help treat gum disease. It has been shown effective in strengthening weak and diseased gum tissue.
References
- "Popular Dietary Supplements"; Allison Fragakis, MS, RD and Cynthia Thomson Ph.D., RD; 2007
- National Cancer Institute: Coenzyme Q10 Overview
- American Heart Association: Coenzyme Q10
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