Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) - Ubiquinone

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), or ubiquinone), is a naturally-occurring, vitamin-like nutrient found in every cell of the body. It is present in highest concentrations in cell mitochondria (where energy is produced), where its primary function is to help with the conversion of food and oxygen into energy.

CoQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant and may help neutralise damage-causing free radicals. Although CoQ10 is involved in every bodily process that requires energy, it's believed to be of particular importance in cells with high metabolic demands, such as heart muscle cells. The heart, with greater energy requirements than other organs, contains twice as much CoQ10 as any other tissue in the body.

Studies show that CoQ10 supplementation supports healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, while also promoting healthy immune-system function. Studies in Parkinson's disease indicate that between 400 mg and 1,200 mg daily is safe and may be effective at slowing progression of this crippling disorder. Optimal benefit was obtained at 1,200 mg per day.

Other studies indicated CoQ10 clearly can protect brain cells (neurons) from deadly free radicals. CoQ10 may also help with periodontal diseases, especially gingivitis. Research indicates that the gum tissue of individuals with periodontal disease is significantly deficient in CoQ10.

Supplementing with CoQ10 may provide the increased energy production needed by cells to maintain healthy gum and mouth tissue. Levels of CoQ10 decline with age, which may result in less efficient organ function because of reduced energy supply. Some scientists studying aging believe the decline of energy production within the cell is the main cause of cell death and dysfunction that occurs with aging. Statin drugs, taken for high cholesterol, also deplete the body of CoQ10.

Although found naturally in foods such as fish, organ meats and peanuts, many people do not receive enough of this important nutrient from their diets. Supplementing with CoQ10 ensures sufficient of this important nutrient is available.

However you should check the label of any supplement and avoid synthetic Chinese and Korean versions. Make sure you are getting the highest-quality, 100% natural ‘trans’ form.

Synthetic CoQ10 is processed using tobacco and contains the ‘cis’ isomer", a non-natural molecule of unproven effectiveness. ‘Trans’ CoQ10 is produced by natural fermentation, a process which produces a version identical to the human body's own CoQ10.