The Spark Plug of Cellular Energy: Exploring the Benefits of Coenzyme Q10

CoQ10 Health Benefits in Franklin, TN

Every day we are bombarded with yet another supplement that promises to make all your medical issues go away. Thousands of the same type of vitamins, packaged attractively by different companies, are found in the health aisles, and it can be very daunting to decide which supplements one should buy. It is easy to end up having a small pharmacy in your bathroom cabinet, and very often we end up taking only a fraction of these tables.  Let’s face it, no one likes swallowing twenty tablets a day, but if you were to buy all the options out there, that’s probably what you would end up doing. And without the proper information, we can end up taking too many supplements as well, which can harm our health. In this blog, we will look at what this marvelous supplement Coenzyme Q10 is, what the benefits are, and whether you should be taking it.

What is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)?

  • Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a natural substance found in every cell in the human body, with the highest levels found in the heart, liver, pancreas, and kidneys.
  • CoQ10 can be referred to as the Spark Plug of Cellular Energy. It plays an essential role in producing energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) in the mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of the cells.
  • Our bodies naturally produce CoQ10, but as we age this production slows down, and supplementation through food or supplements is required.

What Are the Benefits of Coenzyme Q10?

CoQ10 is a molecule that plays a critical role in generating energy in our cells by producing ATP. ATP is like a currency that cells use to transfer energy.
CoQ10 also acts as an antioxidant, which means it protects our cells from damage caused by harmful molecules. Since ATP is essential for all bodily functions and oxidative damage can harm cells, it’s no surprise that low levels of CoQ10 have been linked to some chronic diseases.

Here are some of the potential benefits of CoQ10:

  • Energy production: CoQ10 plays a crucial role in producing ATP, which provides energy for various bodily functions.
  • Antioxidant properties: As an antioxidant, CoQ10 helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals.
  • Heart health: CoQ10 has been shown to improve heart health by reducing inflammation, supporting healthy blood pressure, and promoting the production of energy in heart cells. Studies have shown that CoQ10 can help the outcome of treatments for people with heart failure.
  • Brain health: CoQ10 may have a protective effect on brain cells and may help slow down the progression of certain neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
  • Exercise performance: CoQ10 supplementation may enhance exercise performance by improving energy production and reducing muscle damage and fatigue.
  • Skin health: Everyone wants to look younger.  CoQ10 has often been coined the “youth” supplement, due to its ability to help improve the appearance of the skin by reducing oxidative stress and improving collagen production.  It has been shown to slow down the aging process, inside and outside the body, which is definitely something to write home about.
  • Migraines and Headache reduction: Abnormal mitochondrial function can cause cells to absorb too much calcium, produce too many free radicals, and have less protection against oxidative damage, leading to low brain cell energy and potentially causing migraines.

CoQ10 is mainly found in the mitochondria, and taking CoQ10 supplements has been shown to help improve mitochondrial function and reduce the frequency and duration of migraines in both children and adults. In one small study of 80 people, it was found that taking 100mg of CoQ10 daily can significantly reduce migraine frequency and severity without any adverse effects.

  • Diabetes: Abnormal mitochondrial function has been linked to insulin resistance. CoQ10 has been suggested to help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Studies have shown that CoQ10 can reduce fasting blood sugar levels, lower hemoglobin A1c, and improve risk factors for heart disease. Taking 100mg of CoQ10 daily may improve insulin resistance and HbA1c levels in people with diabetic neuropathy.
  • Lungs: Among all of your organs, your lungs have the most exposure to oxygen, making them vulnerable to oxidative damage. This can lead to lung diseases like COPD and asthma, especially if your antioxidant protection is poor or if your CoQ10 levels are low. Studies show that people with these conditions have lower CoQ10 levels. However, taking CoQ10 supplements may help reduce inflammation and the need for steroid medications in people with asthma.

How Do I Know if I am CoQ10 Deficient?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) deficiency can lead to a wide range of symptoms, depending on the severity of the deficiency. Some common symptoms of low CoQ10 levels include:

  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Muscle pain and stiffness
  • Exercise intolerance
  • High blood pressure
  • Cardiac symptoms, such as heart palpitations
  • Difficulty concentrating and memory loss
  • Mood changes, such as depression or irritability
  • Increased susceptibility to infections
  • Oral health problems, such as gum disease
  • Migraines and headaches

Foods Rich In CoQ10

  • Olive oil: Olive oil is one of the richest sources of CoQ10, an antioxidant that protects the heart and fights inflammation. It also has healthy fats called monounsaturated and omega-6 fats.
  • Nuts and seeds: Seeds that are a source of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) include sesame seeds. Other seeds such as pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds have lower levels of CoQ10 compared to sesame seeds. However, nuts such as pistachio nuts, brazil nuts, walnuts, almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts are also good sources of CoQ10.
  • Meat and Poultry: Meat and poultry are among the best sources of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Organ meats such as heart, liver, and kidney are particularly high in CoQ10. Among meats, beef, pork, and chicken are also good sources of CoQ10. However, the amount of CoQ10 in meat and poultry can vary depending on factors such as the animal’s diet and how the meat is cooked.
  • Fatty fish: Oily fish like Salmon, sardines, mackerel, trout, and tuna are not only rich in CoQ10, but they also provide many other important nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and protein. To get the most CoQ10 from fish, it’s best to choose fresh or frozen fish over canned varieties, as the canning process can reduce the CoQ10 content of fish.
  • Vegetables: While vegetables are generally not considered rich sources of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), some vegetables do contain small amounts of this nutrient. Some vegetables that are a source of CoQ10 include Broccoli, cauliflower, and spinach.

Should I Be Taking Coenzyme Q10 As Supplement?

Although Coenzyme Q10 occurs naturally in our bodies, as we age, the production of CoQ10 decreases.  Certain medications such as statins, can also lower the levels of CoQ10 in the body. Many people live in a very rushed society, and grabbing a take-out can become the norm after a busy day at work. This means that largely as a society, we are not getting the nutrition that is required for a healthy body.  There is a rise in chronic diseases and our poor eating habits are not helping the situation. Our bodies need antioxidants to fight the daily stresses that life puts on our bodies, and CoQ10 is like a dragon slayer when it comes to fighting free radicals in the body.

Fortunately, help is at hand, because CoQ10 can be taken as a supplement, which is definitely something worth writing home about.  CoQ10 supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and soft gels.

In a Nutshell

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a naturally occurring substance found in every cell of the human body. It is essential for producing energy in the form of ATP in the mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of the cells. It also fights against free radicals in the body, which are one of the leading causes of chronic diseases ..   Although our bodies naturally produce CoQ10, this production slows down as we age, and we may need to supplement our intake through food or supplements. If you suspect that you have a CoQ10 deficiency it is important to make an appointment with your healthcare provider who will be able to assess you and make the right recommendations.

Your Health is a Call Away

If you’re looking for a natural and effective way to improve your overall health, make an appointment with Victoria Bailey Thermography, Health, and Wellness.  Take charge of your health by ensuring that you’re on the right track to staying healthy and catching any potential health issues before they become more serious.  Your health is our priority, so book your appointment today.