Coenzyme Q10 is an important nutrient that supports the health of the heart and blood vessels. It is produced by all cells in the body and stored in vital organs such as the liver, heart and kidneys. Coenzyme Q10 is essential in facilitating chemical reactions and metabolisms of fat and energy in the body. It regulates the conversion of fatty acids into useable energy, therefore preventing buildup of fats in the heart muscles.

Coenzyme Q10 is also known to be a strong antioxidant, responsible for protecting the cells against free radicals and oxidative damage and inhibiting the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Oxygen damage can cause heart-related problems such as angina, congestive heart failure, atherosclerosis and heart attacks. Coenzyme Q10 prevents these problems from occurring by protecting the heart muscles from oxidative damage. Coenzyme Q10 also protects DNA from free radicals, boosts the immune system and may even assist in weight loss due to its role in the body’s metabolism.

The human body loses coenzyme Q10 due to aging and is compromised in individuals who have heart disease, cancer, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and Parkinson’s disease. Other factors that may diminish the coenzyme Q10 levels in the body are insufficient diet, stress, and exposure to infections. Deficiency of coenzyme Q10 is also associated with gum problems, digestive problems (particularly ulcers), and abnormal blood sugar levels.

Aside from the body being able to produce coenzyme Q10, it is also synthesized from foods. The richest sources of coenzyme Q10 are from fish, meat, liver, beef, lamb and pork, eggs, and vegetables such as spinach and broccoli.

Coenzyme Q10 toxicity is uncommon from food sources. However, intake of high doses of supplemental coenzyme Q10 can cause symptoms such as mild insomnia, rashes, nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, sensitivity to light, fatigue and dizziness. Children under 18 are not recommended to use coenzyme Q10 unless under the supervision of a physician. The recommended dose for adults 19 years and older is 20-300 mg/day.

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