With today’s increasingly demanding pace of life, it is good that our cells are equipped with a "battery" that ensures we have the necessary energy to carry out any activity we desire.
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a substance naturally synthesized within the human body. In its active form, it is called ubiquinol, and among other functions, it keeps our cellular battery charged.
What are the functions of coenzyme Q10?
1. It participates in energy production
CoQ10 plays a role in the "synthesis of mitochondrial ATP," that is, the conversion of raw energy from food (carbohydrates and fats) into the form of energy used by our cells, called adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This process requires the presence of the coenzyme on the inner mitochondrial membrane. One of its roles is to transfer electrons during the metabolism of fatty acids and glucose. The process of ATP production has many benefits for us, from maintaining muscle mass to regulating appetite and body weight.
2. It combats free radicals
As a fat-soluble antioxidant, CoQ10 has been found to inhibit lipid peroxidation. Thus, when LDL oxidizes, CoQ10 is one of the first antioxidants consumed to counteract the effects. Inside mitochondria, coenzyme Q10 has been found to protect membrane proteins and DNA from oxidative damage and directly neutralize free radicals involved in nearly all age-related diseases (heart diseases, cancers, diabetes, etc.).
3. It may improve heart health
The heart is one of the few organs in our body that works continuously, without rest. Because of this, the heart muscle requires greater energy support than any other organ in our body.
Although more clinical trials are needed to prove its effectiveness, CoQ10 appears to have a significant role in the prevention and treatment of heart diseases. Low levels of CoQ10 have been associated with greater tissue damage to the heart during a heart attack and to the brain during a stroke. It is recommended for patients with cardiovascular disease, heart failure, after myocardial infarction, as well as hypertension.
4. It slows aging
ATP synthesis in mitochondria is important for maintaining a fast metabolism, strong muscles, strong bones, youthful skin, and healthy tissue. Coenzyme Q10 levels in tissues have been reported to decrease with age, and it is believed this contributes to decreased energy levels and organ degeneration, such as in the liver, heart, and skeletal muscles. Although taking CoQ10 supplements has not been proven to increase lifespan, researchers believe it may slow DNA damage associated with aging, which naturally affects us all. Potential benefits include reduced muscle loss, fewer signs of skin damage, and protection against bone or joint injuries.
5. It helps maintain optimal pH levels
Inside cells, CoQ10 helps transport proteins to membranes and separates certain digestive enzymes from the rest of the cell, which helps maintain optimal pH. It is believed that diseases develop more easily in environments that do not have the proper pH level, especially those that are not acidic enough. Several studies have found that CoQ10 can help improve overall immune function and may even reduce the risk of cancer. Researchers who examined CoQ10’s effects on immune function found that people with certain types of cancer (myeloma, lymphoma, breast, lung, prostate, pancreas, and colon) had reduced blood levels of CoQ10.
6. It protects cognitive function
In people with neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, increased oxidative stress in a part of the brain (substantia nigra) is thought to contribute to symptom onset. CoQ10 has been shown to counteract the decrease in electron transport chain activity affecting nerve pathways and brain function. Studies show that individuals with such disorders tend to have reduced CoQ10 levels in their blood.
Who can benefit most from taking CoQ10?
People with high cholesterol undergoing statin therapy show low CoQ10 levels. This is because statins reduce the production of an enzyme in the liver, HMG-CoA reductase, which is critical for the biosynthesis of both cholesterol and CoQ10.
Also, people with chronic diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson’s, heart diseases, and various types of cancer tend to have low CoQ10 levels. It is not known whether the diseases cause the deficiency or if the deficiency occurs first, causing faster cell aging and ultimately increasing the likelihood of disease.
Finally, coenzyme production decreases as we age—precisely when we need it most. This happens because the aging process reduces the natural ability to convert CoQ10 into its active form, ubiquinol.
How can I increase my CoQ10 intake?
Good sources include fatty fish, beef—especially liver—chicken, eggs, broccoli, oranges, strawberries, sesame, and more.
Conclusion
It is evident that coenzyme Q10 plays a key role in improving heart and overall health. Over time, and with various diseases leading to reduced levels in the body, we can all benefit from increasing our intake, both naturally through our diet and with high-quality supplements.
Extra tips for maximum effectiveness
Take CoQ10 with your meals as this increases its absorption.
Take L-carnitine supplements.
L-carnitine acts as a "fuel" transporter (fatty acids) into the mitochondria of cells, where they are "burned" to produce energy.