Metabolic health disorders are on the rise globally, affecting more than two-thirds of individuals. Metabolic changes in the body cause diabetes, increased risk of heart attack, stroke, mental health issues, dementia, cancer, and more.
Science is now realizing that metabolic dysfunction underlines all commonly occurring diseases.
Further, it is worth realizing that these chronic health issues cause much disability. Many of these issues, like fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, might not kill, but they cause a significant decline in quality of life.
What is CoQ10?
There are pathological changes characterizing almost all known chronic health issues and non-infectious issues like insulin resistance, reduced energy, and tissue regeneration. In recent times, researchers have started realizing that this reduced energy production and fatigue and declining health condition in many chronic health issues is due to mitochondrial dysfunction.
Mitochondria are small structures present in each cell—that produce cellular energy. There can be more than one mitochondria in a cell. Hence, cells that need more energy, like nerve cells and muscle cells, are abundant in mitochondria. One of the enzymes that play a critical role in mitochondrial energy production is Q10 (CoQ10). CoQ10, also known as ubiquinone, is essential for the production of ATP. The body needs it to convert various nutrients to energy (1).
While the body can synthesize CoQ10 internally, its production tends to decline with age, making supplementation increasingly important for maintaining optimal levels.
Top Health Benefits of CoQ10
- Cardiovascular Health: As we already mentioned, mitochondria are in greater numbers in cells that need a high energy supply, and heart tissues need lots of energy. It is the only muscular organ that needs to keep working 24 hours a day. Thus, it needs lots of CoQ10 for continuous energy production. Studies show that supplementing the diet with CoQ10 may boost energy production and, therefore, heart health. It may also be good for those living with a failing heart (2).
- Energy Levels: As this article has already mentioned, the prime role of CoQ10 is to promote energy production. These days, fatigue is becoming one of the most common signs and symptoms, as metabolic disorders have become very common. In fact, fatigue is the predominant sign of many diseases like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, dementia, mood issues like depression, and more. Hence, supplementing CoQ10 can help reduce fatigue associated with different health issues (3).
- Skin Aging: Coenzyme Q10 exhibits potent antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize harmful free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. By protecting skin from oxidative stress, CoQ10 may help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging, promoting youthful-looking skin and overall skin health. Some of its benefits for skin health may be due to its benefits for overall health. Thus, Coq10 must be part of any anti-aging program.
- Exercise Performance: CoQ10 is critical for energy production. Many people living with chronic health issues have difficulty exercising due to muscle pain, slow recovery, and constant lack of energy. CoQ10 may help increase endurance, reduce fatigue, and support faster post-exercise recovery, making it a valuable supplement for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike (4).
- May Reduce Inflammation: Emerging research suggests that CoQ10 may possess anti-inflammatory properties, offering potential benefits for individuals struggling with chronic inflammation. By modulating inflammatory pathways and mitigating oxidative stress, CoQ10 may help alleviate inflammation-related symptoms and promote overall well-being.
- Enhanced Male and Female Fertility: Recent studies show that CoQ10 is also good for male and female fertility. Slow-moving sperms due to mitochondrial dysfunction and poor energy supply are among the leading causes of male infertility, and CoQ10 can help (5). Similarly, it appears that CoQ10 can also boost female egg quality.
The Bottom Line
Coenzyme Q10 is a nutrient with many health benefits, ranging from cardiovascular support and enhanced energy levels to skin rejuvenation and exercise performance. As we age, maintaining optimal CoQ10 levels becomes increasingly critical for sustaining vitality and promoting overall health and well-being. By incorporating CoQ10 supplementation into our daily regimen, we can exploit its potent antioxidant properties and unlock its full potential in supporting our journey toward optimal health and longevity.
References
- Hargreaves IP. Coenzyme Q10 as a therapy for mitochondrial disease. Int J Biochem Cell Biol. 2014 Apr;49:105–11.
- Zozina VI, Covantev S, Goroshko OA, Krasnykh LM, Kukes VG. Coenzyme Q10 in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases: Current State of the Problem. Curr Cardiol Rev. 2018 Aug;14(3):164–74.
- Tsai IC, Hsu CW, Chang CH, Tseng PT, Chang KV. Effectiveness of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation for Reducing Fatigue: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:883251.
- Alf D, Schmidt ME, Siebrecht SC. Ubiquinol supplementation enhances peak power production in trained athletes: a double-blind, placebo controlled study. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2013 Apr 29;10(1):24.
- Lafuente R, González-Comadrán M, Solà I, López G, Brassesco M, Carreras R, et al. Coenzyme Q10 and male infertility: a meta-analysis. J Assist Reprod Genet. 2013 Sep;30(9):1147–56.