Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).
Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10, also known as ubiquinone, is a fat-soluble coenzyme.  It is present in certain parts of a cell, called mitochondria, where the necessary energy for the function of the cell is produced. Thus, coenzyme Q10 is essential for biochemical reactions to occur. CoQ10 is an important antioxidant. Although this substance is produced in every human cell, as the body gets older the rate of CoQ10 synthesis declines.
Studies have given specific evidence that coenzyme Q10 contributes to protein synthesis and helps in delay of skin aging. The nutrient can assist in prevention of hypertension, increase of blood cholesterol levels, occurrence of congestive heart failure, diabetes and incompetence. It can also protect from immune system disorders, cardiovascular disease and periodontal problems. Coenzyme Q10 enhances fertility in males and endurance in physical activity in people with muscular dystrophy. CoQ10 can increase an athlete's performance, since it gets involved in muscle contraction. What is more, it is considered as antihistamine, anti-allergic and anticancer factor.
Very often, coenzyme Q10 is contained as an antioxidant in skin care preparations for topical use.
Occasionally, CoQ10 is used as part of the treatment of Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, cancer and HIV/AIDS.
Sources of coenzyme Q10.
Coenzyme Q10 can be found in a wide range of foods, such as peanuts, spinach, whole grains, soybean oil, salmon, mackerel, sardines, beef, organ meats, like heart, kidney and liver. If an individual's diet does not include many of the above foods, CoQ10 can be obtained from supplements which are very useful, providing they come in dark bottles, because the coenzyme is sensitive to light. Latest researches suggest that any use of certain anti-cholesterol medications, such as statins should be accompanied by coenzyme Q10 supplementation, since these drugs tend to deplete this important antioxidant.
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Coenzyme Q10 deficiency and toxicity.
Deficiency in coenzyme Q10 has been associated with periodontal disease, early aging of skin, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and muscular dystrophy.
Coenzyme Q10 is fat-soluble, and if is taken in increased dosages for a long period of time, an over-dose situation can occur. Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, palpitations, headache and loss of appetite. Daily intake of 600-1200mg/day is considered toxic.
Recommendations for coenzyme Q10.
For preventive use, the basic recommended dose for CoQ10 intake is 40 to 100mg per day. In fact, the RDA for coenzyme Q10 is 40mg/day. When it comes to treatment dosage, a physician's advice is recommended, because the needs vary, depending on the condition treated, the present medication taken and the patient's medical history and age.
The use of CoQ10 should be avoided in pregnant and breastfeeding women. |
