CoQ10
CoQ10 - short for Coenzyme Q10 - is a fat soluble vitamin -like substance present in every cell of the body. It plays a vital role in several key enzymatic steps in the production of energy within cells. It also has powerful antioxidant effects. This nutrient is abundant in organ meats such as heart, liver and kidney, as well as beef, soy oil, sardines, mackerel, and peanuts. This nutrient is required to convert fats and sugars into cellular energy. Supplemental use may have cardioprotective, cytoprotective and neuroprotective activities.Levels begin to decline around age 30.
Although the body can synthesize this nutrient, deficiencies do exist. As the heart is one of the most metabolically active tissues, a deficiency of this nutrient most commonly effects the cardiovascular system. Deficiencies can occur due to inadequate nutrition, or impaired synthesis and absorbtion. In general, the elderly are the most likely to be deficient, along with those suffering from angina, high blood pressure, mitral valve prolapse, and congestive heart failure. Benefits of CoQ10 Energy production and antioxidant effects are among the highest benefits of this nutrient. Cardiovascular Disease It is thought that it can prevent, and even reverse, the degenerative lesions of the heart associated with cardiovascular disese, and enhance the mechanical functions of the heart. High Blood Pressure It is estimated that up to 30% of patients with high blood pressure are deficient in this nutrient. Though the exact reasons are not yet fully understood, this nutrient appears to have the ability to actually lower blood pressure in patients with hypertension. In addition, it also apparently corrects some metabolic abnormalities, favorably influencing blood pressure levels. Angina The painful pressure, or squeezing sensation in the chest that occurs with angina is caused by an insufficient supply of oxygen to the heart. Angina is almost always caused by atherosclerosis - a builup of cholesterol plaque that, over time, narrows, and can eventual block, the coronary arteries. In several small studies, CoQ10 has shown to be effective in treating angina patients. Diabets CoQ10 is also thought to be beneficial to those suffering with diabetes mellitus. The exact reasons are not understood, but appear to have something to do with enhanced carbohydrate metabolism. People with type 2 diabetes have been found to have significantly lower blood levels compared with healthy people. Immune Function Tissues and cells involved in immune function are highly energy-dependent and require an adequate supply of it to function optimally. Some studies indicate immune-enhancing effects. Studies done with elderly mice showed that age-related immunosuppression was partially reversed by treatment with this nutrient. Cancer Because of its apparant immune-enhancing effects, studies are being done to determine the benefits it may have in cancer treatments. It also thought to be of great value to those taking chemotherapy drugs associated with heart toxicity. Safety Issues It has no known toxicity or side effects, however, certain medications may interact with coenzyme Q10. It is reccommended that congestive heart failure patients who are taking it should not discontinue taking it unless under the supervision of their health care practitioner. Supplementing With CoQ10
TOP
HOME
The information on this web site is intended for educational purposes only, and not as any form of medical advice. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider.

|