Q for your heart!

Eisha Sarkar

Posted on Hello Wellness on Oct 5 2010 9:37AM

From being a functionary in mitochondrial respiratory chain in the cell, Coenzyme Q has now gained prominence around the world as a heart energizer. Known variously as Coenzyme Q10, ubiquinone, coenzyme Q, CoQ, Q10, or Q, this fat-soluble strong antioxidant is necessary for a well-functioning system. It is present in small amounts in meat, fish, chicken liver, parsley, vegetable oils and is produced by all cells of the body.

Although CoQ10 can be synthesized within the body, there are a number of circumstances where the body simply does not make sufficient amounts. Its deficiency could be a result of impaired CoQ10 synthesis due to nutritional deficiencies, a genetic or acquired defect in CoQ10 synthesis, or increased tissue needs such as in the case of heart or vascular disease. Cholesterol-lowering drugs such as statins also impair the CoQ10 production process. CoQ10 levels are also known to decline with advancing age.

Supplementation with CoQ10 may help:

1.       The heart: Oxidation of the circulating LDL (bad cholesterol) is thought to play a key role in atherosclerosis, which may lead to heart attack. The content of ubiquinol (the reduced form of CoQ10) in human LDL affords protection against the oxidative modifications of LDL, thus reducing risk of atherosclerosis

2.       Deal with migraines: Supplementation of coenzyme Q10 in dosages of 150-300 mg/day has been found to have a beneficial effect on the condition of some sufferers of migraine headaches 

3.       Improve blood pressure: CoQ10 deficiency has been shown to be present in 39 per cent of patients with high blood pressure. CoQ10 supplementation has been shown to lower blood pressure in patients with hypertension by about 17/7 mm Hg. The effect of CoQ10 on blood pressure is usually not seen until after 4-12 weeks of therapy

4.       Periodontal disease: Gum disease affects 60 per cent of young adults and 90 per cent of individuals over age 65. Healing and repair of periodontal tissue requires efficient energy production, a metabolic function dependent on an adequate supply of CoQ10. CoQ10 deficiency has been reported in gingival tissue of patients with periodontal disease

5.       In Parkinson's disease: A 2002 study in 80 Parkinson's disease patients found 1200 mg/day reduced the progression by 44 per cent

The usual dosage recommendation for CoQ10 is 50 to 150 mg/day. Though Coenzyme Q10 has no side-effects even with long-term use, its safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been proven. Consult with your doctor before taking CoQ10 supplements.