Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Author: Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D. and Virginia Hopkins, M.A.
Source: Prescription Alternatives

CoQ10 has the ability to protect and strengthen the heart and lower blood pressure. CoQ10 is a vital enzyme, a catalyst to the production of energy in our cells. Without it, our cells simply won’t work. It’s chemical name is ubiquinone – it is ubiquitous, or everywhere, where there is life. Its levels in the human body are highest in the heart and liver. When we are ill or stressed, and as we age, our bodies are less able to produce CoQ10.

According to a study done by CoQ10 expert Karl Folkers, published in the International Journal of Vitamin and Nutrition Research, patients with a variety of cardiac disorders consistently demonstrate a blood deficiency of CoQ10. A double-blind Japanese study with 100 patients who had cardiac failure showed that only 30 mg per day of CoQ10 for two to four weeks produced a measurable improvement in symptoms. Many older people whose heart function has degenerated and who try CoQ10 report an almost immediate boost in their energy levels.

People who suffer from angina report that the pain disappears and they can exercise. In a double-blind placebo study using CoQ10 and other drugs traditionally used to treat angina, it was found that CoQ10 was far more effective in reducing or eliminating angina pain than any of the other medications. Other studies have shown that people on heart medications can greatly reduce their dosage of medicine if it is combined with CoQ10.

The best way to take CoQ10 is in a gel capsule, which is much stronger than the powder form.