So what’s the relationship between . . . → Read More: Ubiquinol Benefits: Worth The Extra Cost?]]>

If you’re considering or are already taking a coenzyme Q10 supplement, you may be curious about ubiquinol benefits and find yourself wondering if supplementing with ubiquinol is the wiser choice. Here’s the lowdown on ubiquinol benefits and how it stacks up against the more widely available and less expensive coenzyme Q10 supplements.

So what’s the relationship between ubiquinol and coenzyme Q10? Coenzyme Q10, or ubiquinone, is a vitamin-like substance found in every cell of the body. It produces energy our bodies need for cellular growth and maintenance. The actual “work” it does takes place in a part of every cell called the mitochondria, and its job is to help transform fats and sugars into energy.

When coenzyme Q10 isn’t in use in our cellular mitochondria, it can be found at work within the cell membrane, acting as an antioxidant and helping us recycle antioxidant vitamins like E and C. When coenzyme Q10 is acting as an antioxidant within the cell membrane rather than an energy producer within the cellular mitochondria, it’s called ubiquinol. Our bodies automatically regulate how the coenzyme Q10 we produce or supplement with is used, leaving some in the ubiquinone form for energy production, and converting some to ubiquinol to act as an antioxidant.

That’s essentially the difference: ubiquinol is a reduced form of coenzyme Q10 which acts primarily as an antioxidant. Ubiquinol is currently more expensive to manufacture than ubiquinone, but fortunately, our bodies are usually readily able to convert ubiquinone into ubiquinol as needed. This leaves us asking the questions, “What are ubiquinol benefits? Why would I supplement with the higher-priced version?”

Although no significant studies have been done comparing ubiquinone and ubiquinol benefits, it can be theorized that people who need a great deal of antioxidant support – advanced congestive heart failure patients and those with type II diabetes, for example – may benefit from taking coenzyme Q10 in the form of ubiquinol. There is also some informal evidence from people who’ve tried both that ubiquinol “feels” somewhat more effective than ubiquinone, and that a higher dose of ubiquinone may be needed to mirror ubiquinol benefits.

So what does all this mean? If you’re reasonably healthy, ubiquinol benefits may not be worth the extra cost. Ubiquinol typically sells for 3-4 times the cost of standard ubiquinone – if cost is not an issue, or you have serious medical issues which cause you to need intense antioxidant support, ubiquinol’s benefits may warrant the extra money you’ll be spending. But if you’re in good health and don’t have the extra cash to spend on a refined version of a proven-effective supplement, regular coenzyme Q10 should work just fine for you.

It’s a good idea to consult your doctor before taking coenzyme Q10 in either form. It’s generally very well tolerated, and starting with a 100 mg dose and adding more over time if needed is common.

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, plays an important role in many aspects of health. A naturally-occurring vitamin-like substance found in every cell, the coenzyme is . . . → Read More: Coenzyme Q10 Dosage – How Much Do You Really Need?]]>

Is there an optimum daily Coenzyme Q10 dosage that will deliver maximum benefits? Officially speaking the answer is no, but experts agree that the older you get, the more you need.

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, plays an important role in many aspects of health. A naturally-occurring vitamin-like substance found in every cell, the coenzyme is essential to the production of energy at the cellular level. This makes it crucial to all body systems and of particular importance to the organs that require the most energy, including the heart and cardiovascular system.

Coenzyme Q10 is also a powerful antioxidant, which makes it even more important as we age. Antioxidants are capable of preventing and even reversing cellular damage done by free radicals, which are chemically imbalanced molecules that scavenge and damage the cells with which they interact. Free radical damage is strongly associated with virtually all age-related disorders.

How Much Coenzyme Q10 Do We Really Need?

At this time no official Recommended Daily Intake has been set for CoQ10, but it is generally agreed that “average” intake of the coenzyme is somewhere between 30 and 90 IU per day. However, many experts assert that much higher doses are necessary to achieve maximum benefits, and research appears to support higher dosages as both safe and effective.

In clinical trials dosages far exceeding the average daily intake have provided significant positive effects with no negative effects. For example, a Baker Heart Research Institute review and analysis of dozens of studies and clinical trials done over more than a decade concluded that intake of up to 300 IU per day of Coenzyme Q10 is likely to have beneficial effects for patients with heart failure, high blood pressure, cardiac arrythmias, and post-cardiac surgery patients.

Even very high Coenzyme Q10 dosage is supported by research on its usefulness in treating or preventing a number of other age-related conditions, including Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease. In tests, dosages of up to 2400 IU per day were shown to be safe and well-tolerated, and appeared to significantly slow the progress of both diseases.

Is Supplementation A Must For Maximum Coenzyme Q10 Benefits?

While there is no universally accepted standard for the amount of the coenzyme that we need, some basic guidelines appear to apply. For people aged 40 and under, the average daily intake of 30 to 90 IU may be sufficient, while people over 40 may require more to see maximum benefits.

Individuals with specific health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and periodontal disease to name just a few, may benefit from significantly higher dosages but should consult with a physician before starting supplementation.

Minimal side effects have been observed, and those (which can include upset stomach, headache, and insomnia) generally subside on their own. The effects of the coenzyme are not generally immediately apparent, and a program of supplementation may need to be continued for several months in order to see maximum benefits.

Drugs classified as statins are generally prescribed to prevent or treat atherosclerosis, a buildup of cholesterol-based plaque in the arteries which is known to increase risk of heart attack and stroke. . . . → Read More: Coenzyme Q10 and Statins: Cause For Concern?]]>

Is there a connection between coenzyme Q10 and statins? Studies say yes, and indicate that the the CoQ10-statin interaction could put millions of people at risk.

Drugs classified as statins are generally prescribed to prevent or treat atherosclerosis, a buildup of cholesterol-based plaque in the arteries which is known to increase risk of heart attack and stroke. They work in the liver by inhibiting the release of the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme that is responsible for producing cholesterol.

Because of their effectiveness as reducing blood cholesterol levels, statin drugs such as Crestor, Zocol, Lipitor, Pravachol, and Levacor are among the most frequently prescribed medications; in fact, more than 60 million people in the US alone are taking statin drugs. But new studies show that the action of these medications interferes with the normal production of coenzyme Q10, which is essential to heart health and normal cardiac function.

Coenzyme Q10 Sufficiency Essential To Healthy Heart Function

Coenzyme Q10, also referred to as CoQ10 or Ubiquinone, is a naturally-occurring substance that plays a crucial role in the production of energy at the cellular level. It is found in every cell in the human body, but is most concentrated in the heart, brain, kidneys, and other organs that have the highest energy requirements.

It is also a powerful antioxidant capable of preventing, repairing, and in some cases even reversing the negative effects of free radicals, chemically imbalanced molecules that scavenge and damage the cells with which they interact. Free radical damage has been implicated in a host of illnesses, and is known to play an important role in the development of chronic age-related conditions including cardiac dysfunction.

Deficiency of CoQ10 is recognized as a risk factor for heart disease, and clinical studies have shown that supplementation prior to heart surgery can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and arrythmias and reduce recovery time. In addition, supplemental CoQ10 taken by patients who have had a heart attack has proven effective at preventing subsequent heart attacks.

Statin drugs’ potential interference with the production of CoQ10 poses the greatest risk for people over 50, who may already be deficient in the coenzyme. The body’s production of the substance peaks at around 20 years of age and then declines gradually until about the age of 40, when natural production drops off sharply.

Research Suggests Supplementation Can Be Beneficial

Ongoing research suggests that CoQ10 supplements could be beneficial for people taking statin drugs. Studies reported in the Journal Of The American College of Cardiology confirm that statin treatment reduces circulating levels of coenzyme Q10 and notes that there is both anecdotal and preliminary trial evidence that CoQ10 supplementation could be an effective solution for patients who develop statin myalgia.

No standard RDA for the coenzyme has been set, but a supplement of 30 to 90 mgs per day is generally considered to be a typical dosage. It is important to check with your physician before adding supplements of any kind.

The term photoaging refers to the cumulative results of exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which can lead to a host of skin problems. Wrinkles, dark spots, saggy tone, leathery texture, and visible . . . → Read More: Coenzyme Q10 Skin Benefits Protect Against Photoaging, Keep Skin Younger Looking Longer]]>

Coenzyme Q10 skin benefits are particularly important during the summer months, when prolonged exposure to the sun can accelerate the damaging process of photoaging.

The term photoaging refers to the cumulative results of exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays, which can lead to a host of skin problems. Wrinkles, dark spots, saggy tone, leathery texture, and visible broken blood vessels – in brief, just about every skin condition associated with aging – are all known to be exacerbated by UV exposure.

The negative effects of UV exposure can not only increase the appearance of natural age-related skin conditions, it can greatly hasten their appearance, resulting in skin that looks much older than it should. In fact, most experts agree that as much as 90% of premature skin aging symptoms can be attributed to photoaging.

How Photoaging Happens
UV exposure effects the skin in a number of ways. On some areas of the body the epidermis, or surface layer of skin, reacts to UV exposure by becoming thicker and coarser, and may also develop blotchy discolorations known as age spots. At the same time, the outer layer of skin in sensitive areas such as the face may become thinner, more delicate, and more prone to bruising. The skin around the eyes may also become less opaque, leading to the appearance of dark circles.

The dermis, or deep layer of skin, also undergoes changes triggered by UV exposure. The dermis tends to become thinner and less resilient, providing less support for the epidermis.

Most importantly, UV radiation is known to lead to the creation of free radicals, chemically imbalanced molecules that scavenge and damage the cells with which they interact. Free radical damage breaks down the collagen/elastin structure of the skin itself, accelerating the normal age-related breakdown of collagen and leading to the production of abnormal elastin fibers in the dermis. This process weakens the basic structure of the dermis, and wrinkling, furrowing, and saggy skin is the inevitable result.

How Coenzyme Q10 Skin Benefits Can Help
Coenzyme Q10, which is a vitamin-like substance naturally produced by the body, plays two crucial roles in protecting against photoaging. Its primary function is in the production of energy at the cellular level, and in that capacity it strengthens and revitalizes skin cells, making them less vulnerable to sun damage.

CoQ10 is also known to be a powerful antioxidant, which means it is is capable of preventing, repairing, and in some cases even reversing the damage done by free radicals. This function is important in all aspects of health, but it is absolutely crucial in the prevention of photoaging.

Coenzyme Q10 is essential to health at every stage of life, but a growing body of research indicates that keeping levels optimum is particularly crucial as we age. Unfortunately the body’s production of the coenzyme peaks sometime around age 20 and drops off sharply thereafter, making supplementation vital for older people.

There is currently no specific RDA for the coenzyme. While experts vary on the amount needed,  typical dosage recommendations range from 50 to 200 mgs per day and some studies have reported significant positive results from much higher dosages. Consulting with a physician before adding CoQ10 supplements is suggested.

A 2009 pilot study reported in The Journal of International Medical Research looked at the effects of a regimen of antioxidant supplements, including 300 mg per day of CoQ10, in group of 41 . . . → Read More: Study Confirms Coenzyme Q10 Benefits As Adjuvant Therapy For Late-Stage Cancer]]>

A recent study confirms that supplementation with antioxidants including coenzyme Q10 benefits patients with aggressive late-stage cancer, improving overall wellbeing and lengthening survival time.

A 2009 pilot study reported in The Journal of International Medical Research looked at the effects of a regimen of antioxidant supplements, including 300 mg per day of CoQ10, in group of 41 terminal cancer patients.

Though the authors of the study stressed that additional research is called for, their research findings concluded that taking antioxidant supplements in addition to ongoing traditional treatment increased the life expectancy of the patients. In addition, they noted that there appeared to be a general and easily observable improvement in overall well-being among the patients taking the antioxidant supplements

The study also found that the sooner antioxidant therapy was started, the more profound its effects. The median survival time of participants who started antioxidant therapy within six weeks of diagnosis was seven months, while those who began antioxidant treatment later had a median survival time of just one and half months.

Antioxidants’ ability to prevent, repair, and in some cases even reverse free radical damage is believed to be the crucial factor. Chemically imbalanced molecules produced as byproducts of the natural process of cellular oxidation, free radicals scavenge and damage the cells with which they interact. Free radical damage is associated with scores of diseases and conditions, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and almost all age-related diseases.

Antioxidants like coemzyme Q10 can stabilize free radicals, neutralizing their damage potential. It is also believed that in some situations, antioxidants can substantially reduce existing free radical damage including inflammation and cellular breakdown.

However, CoQ10 plays a unique role in the process because in addition to being a powerful antioxidant, it is also a crucial factor in the production of energy at the cellular level. A natural substance produced by the body and found in every cell, the coenzyme serves as a “messenger link” in the cellular mitochondria, triggering the biochemical reactions that lead to the production of energy.

Coenzyme Q10 is known to boost immune system function, which in turn reduces inflammation and increases cellular resistance to injury.

Research indicates that low levels of the coenzyme are strongly associated with cancers of the breast, lung, prostate, pancreas, colon, kidney, and head/neck. Numerous studies, including several clinical trials, have suggested that CoQ10 shows excellent potential as a therapy in the treatment of various types of cancer.

1. It increases energy and enhances endurance. A vitamin-like substance that is present in every cell . . . → Read More: Coenzyme Q10 Benefits – Five Reasons For Babyboomers To Take CoQ10 Supplements]]>

Are there special coenzyme Q10 benefits for Babyboomers? You bet there are. This crucial substance is essential to good health at every time of life, but if you’re over 50 you need it more than ever. Here are five reasons why:

1. It increases energy and enhances endurance. A vitamin-like substance that is present in every cell of the body, CoQ10 plays a key role in the production of energy. It acts as a “messenger link”, triggering the biochemical reactions that make up the energy production process. When levels of the coenzyme are low, the reactions don’t take place.

A 2008 Japanese study showed that taking daily 300 milligram supplements of CoQ10 for as little as one week had a significant positive effect on physical ability during exercise, as well as on the amount of post-exercise fatigue experienced. It was also shown to greatly enhance oxygen utilization and reduce recovery time.

2. It can help you keep your teeth. Most adult tooth loss is related to periodontal disease, a condition in which the gums become red, sore, inflamed, and swollen. It’s estimated that 90% of Americans will experience gum disease during their lifetime, and 25% of Americans over 60 will lose teeth due to the disease.

Studies have repeatedly confirmed that low CoQ10 levels are definitely associated with periodontal disease, and numerous clinical trials showed that supplements can effectively halt the progression of the disease. Several small studies suggest that raising blood levels of the coenzyme can actually reverse the effects of the disease, and when used in conjunction with other treatments can result in faster and more complete healing than expected with standard treatments alone.

3. It can help you keep a healthy blood pressure. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, effects one in four people over 50. A dangerous condition in which the pressure of the blood in the arteries is chronically elevated, hypertension is strongly associated with heart attack, stroke, and heart and kidney failure.

CoQ10 is believed to improve membrane fluidity, reducing blood viscosity and which in turn lowers blood pressure. In addition, maintaining high levels of the coenzyme supplies additional energy to the heart, helping it work better and more efficiently.

4. It can keep your skin looking younger longer. CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant, capable of preventing, repairing, and even reversing the free radical damage that is basic cause of skin aging.

Free radicals, chemically unstable molecules that are byproducts of cellular oxidation, scavenge and damage the cells with which the interact. As we age, free radical damage leads to the breakdown of the collagen framework that is structural foundation of the skin. The result is wrinkles and thin, sagging skin.

Numerous studies have shown that keeping optimum blood levels of the coenzyme can help prevent and may even reverse thinning of the skin, and it supports and strengthens the collagen foundation.

5. It protects against a host of age-related disorders. The anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of CoQ10 are already known to be invaluable to maintaining cardiac health, and it’s being tested for effectiveness in preventing or treating macular degeneration, adult-onset diabetes, and prostate cancer.

More than 60 million people in the US alone are taking statins, a powerful class of cholesterol-reducing drugs that includes atorvastatin (Lipitor),  rosuvastatin (Crestor), fluvastatin (Lescol), simvastatin . . . → Read More: The Coenzyme Q10 Statins Connection – Supplements May Lessen Statin Side Effects]]>

Research on the Coenzyme Q10 statins connection confirms that taking supplemental coenzyme Q10 may lessen the debilitating muscle pain and body aches that are common side effects of statin drugs.

More than 60 million people in the US alone are taking statins, a powerful class of cholesterol-reducing drugs that includes atorvastatin (Lipitor),  rosuvastatin (Crestor), fluvastatin (Lescol), simvastatin (Zocor) and others.

Statin drugs are generally prescribed for people who have elevated cholesterol levels or a family history of stroke or cardiac disease. Statins work by blocking the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme in the liver, which is responsible for the production of cholesterol.

Elevated cholesterol levels are strongly associated with the development of athereosclerosis, a condition in which plaque forms in the arteries and restricts blood flow. This condition dramatically heightens risk for heart attack and stroke.

Though statin drugs can be very effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels, they can have serious side effects including muscle pain and body aches that may range from mildly uncomfortable to life-disrupting. In rare cases statins can lead to a muscular myopathy called rhabdomyolysis, in which muscles are severely damaged.

The reasons why statins can cause muscle aches are still not completely clear, but new research suggests that part of the problem is that they suppress the body’s ability to produce coenzyme Q10. This concept is supported by studies that show a significant decrease in statin-related muscle pain when supplemental doses of coenzyme Q10 were taken.

In a study reported by the American Journal of Cardiology, patients were randomly assigned in a double-blind test to treatment with either 100 mg a day of coenzyme Q10 or 400 mg per day of vitamin E. Both the degree of muscle pain experienced and the amount that pain interfered with the patients’ daily activities were assessed before and after treatment.

After 30 days, pain severity decreased by 40% in the group taking coenzyme Q10, while no change in pain severity was observed in the group taking vitamin E. In addition, the group taking coemzyme Q10 showed a 38% decrease in pain interference with daily activities. No decrease in pain interference with daily activities was observed in the other group.

Relief from muscle aches is believed by many experts to be only one segment on the coenzyme Q10-statin connection. The coenzyme is essential to the production of energy at the cellular level and is particularly crucial to healthy cardiac function. The fact that statin drugs suppress the body’s natural production of CoQ10 could pose additional risk for cardiac problems.