What Does CoQ10 do?

Co Enzyme Q10 is produced naturally by the body and is an antioxidant, which means it is important in helping to protect our cells against oxidative stress and free radical damage, which could otherwise affect normal cell functioning and lead to health problems, for example heart disease.  CoQ10 is a vitamin-like nutrient that is used by our cells for growth and maintenance. It is present in all human tissues and organs, being stored in the mitochondria which is the ‘powerhouse’ of the cell – where energy is produced. The tissue levels of CoQ10 in the body declines with age, as does our natural ability to produce it. This decline is associated by many with some of the symptoms and diseases seen commonly to accompany ageing. It is therefore important to try and increase our daily food sources of Co Enzyme Q10, which includes meat, fish and nuts. This can be difficult for some, and so a good way to significantly increase CoQ10 levels in the body is through the use of supplements. A typical adult daily dose is around 100mg, which can easily be achieved by taking just one capsule per day. As it is fat soluble CoQ10 is better absorbed by the body when taken alongside a meal containing oil or fats.

So, what do people perceive to be the benefits of maintaining adequate CoQ10 intake?

Well, Co Enzyme Q10 is vital for energy production processes, playing a crucial role in helping to convert foods we consume into energy needed by our cells to stay healthy and function efficiently. The highest levels of CoQ10 are found in our organs that require the most energy to function properly, such as the heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas.

Heart Health – Co Enzyme Q10 is said to support cardiovascular health and aid circulation due to the high energy demands of the heart muscle. CoQ10 is involved in making ATP which is involved in energy transfer within cells, and it is also said to preserve nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a colourless gas that is a vasodilator - important for blood vessel health, it relaxes the inner walls of the blood vessels, so they widen and increase blood flow, thus allowing more effective and efficient transportation of nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. There are cardiovascular benefits of improved nitric oxide levels such as lower blood pressure and enhanced exercise performance and recovery. 

Studies have shown the potential of Co Enzyme Q10 to lower blood pressure in the treatment of hypertension [1]. Results have also demonstrated a reduction in the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events [2].

Immune Support – Playing such a key role in cellular energy supply means that CoQ10 is important for supporting the immune system and the needs of the cells involved in the immune response [3].

Diabetes Management – Research suggests that Co Enzyme Q10 may help to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels [4].

Brain Health – The brain has high energy demands and is especially sensitive to oxidative damage. There have been animal studies that have shown neuroprotective benefits of CoQ10 that could possibly reduce harmful compounds and slow the progression of Alzheimer’s [5].

Skin Health – As a potent antioxidant that helps to neutralise free radicals, generate energy for cells to support collagen production and protect cells from damage (such as that caused by UV rays), studies have shown the benefits of supplementation with CoQ10 and its contribution to skin health in ageing [6].

For a high quality supplement of Co Enzyme Q10 that is suitable for vegans, visit www.hellenia.co.uk or click here. Hellenia capsules offer an affordable option in an absorption-friendly form ubiquinone to support the body’s needs.