What is coenzyme Q10?
Coenzyme Q10 (also known as ubiqinone) is a vitamin like substance which plays a vital role in the body’s energy supply mechanism, acting in conjunction with enzymes (hence the name coenzyme Q10) to convert sugars and fat into energy. Coenzyme Q10 is also important as an antioxidant within the body. Coenzyme quinones occur in several chemical forms, with coenzyme Q10 being the only form found in human tissues. The human body is able to synthesize (in the liver) a limited amount of coenzyme Q10, with the remainder being obtained from the diet. Rich sources of coenzyme Q10 include fish (mackerel, salmon, sardines) and nuts. Under normal circumstances, the body is able to maintain adequate levels of coenzyme Q10. However, coenzyme Q10 levels decrease with age, and are depleted by intense physical exercise or illness. Coenzyme Q10 levels are also depleted in patients prescribed cholesterol-lowering statin drugs.
What does coenzyme Q10 do?
oenzyme Q10 is an essential cofactor of enzymes involved in the energy production process. Coenzyme Q10 is stored in mitochondria, structures found within cells responsible for the generation of energy (in the form of a molecule called ATP). Tissues with a high-energy requirement (heart, liver, skeletal muscles) contain higher numbers of mitochondria within their cells. Coenzyme Q10 is also important within the body as a major fat-soluble antioxidant, protecting cell membranes from the damaging effects of free radicals, in a complementary manner to vitamin E. Coenzyme Q10 promotes normal cardiovascular function, and normal immune function (cells involved in immune response have a high energy dependence).
- How much Coenzyme Q10 should you take?
The generally recommended intake for coenzyme Q10 is 30 to 100mg/day, taken in split doses (e.g. morning and evening) with meals, to enhance absorption.
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