Should You Take Coenzyme Q10?

Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10 refers to an oil-soluble, vitamin-like compound that participates in aeronic cellular respiration. The body generates energy through aeronic cellular respiration. This means, CoQ10 naturally occurs in the body – particularly in the heart, kidney, and liver.

Since CoQ10 has been identified by science, it became highly recommended for its many health benefits. Although more research is needed to determine its efficacy, lab results suggest that CoQ10 is a highly beneficial compound to maintain health.

Benefits of CoQ10

Protects from Cancer

According to an experiment conducted by researchers at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), CoQ10 protects healthy cells from mutation that leads to cancer. The NCI also noted that this compound protects the heart from side effects caused by cancer treatments.  Clinical tests show that CoQ10 is able to shrink down chemically-induced tumors in lab animals.

In a separate experiment, lab animals given CoQ10 became resistant to infections and certain cancers. This was attributed to the nutrient’s ability to strengthen the immune system. CoQ10 stimulates the generation of antibodies. In another clinical test, breast cancer patients given CoQ10 treatments felt a significant improvement in their condition.

Regulates Blood Glucose Level

CoQ10 is deemed as the future treatment for diabetes. Researchers at the University of Western Australia found that CoQ10 lowered the blood pressure of patients afflicted with type 2 diabetes. The findings were published in the 2002 issue of the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The research involved tracking and testing 74 subjects. Tests show that CoQ10 also lowered the patients’ blood glucose levels.

Prevents Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is an eye disorder common in older adults. Health experts believe that CoQ10 treatment could cut the risk of this condition. Some studies also suggest that CoQ10 may help delay the onset of Alzheimer disease. A 2011 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease reports that patients given CoQ10 treatments felt a remarkable improvement in their behavior. The treatment also decreased the damaging plaque area of the brain in patients afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease.

Keeps the Heart Healthy

Taking CoQ10 might also keep the heart healthy. Preliminary tests from a University of Maryland Medical Center research show that taking this compound regularly reduced chest pain from clogged heart arteries. The findings also suggest that CoQ10 could improve exercise tolerance and protect children from heart valve disorders.

Dosage and Factors to Consider

CoQ10 usually comes in soft gel or capsule form. Individuals ages 35 and up will benefit from taking CoQ10 the most. When it comes to dosage, always read the label. The recommended dosage is 20 to 200 mg. per day. It’s best taken with a meal containing oil. That’s because CoQ10 is oil-soluble.

Of course, before taking such supplements, consult your doctors first. This is important if you are taking other medications too.

Also, people afflicted with diabetes should talk to their doctors first about the risks and benefits of taking CoQ10. This is due to the compound’s ability to lower blood pressure. Taking CoQ10 supplements without your doctor’s consent could lead to other medical issues.