Coenzyme Q10

Did you know that there is a nutrient that is responsible for producing 95 percent of your cell’s energy which translates into energy that fuels your body’s daily activities?  If you’re playing along, this promising nutrient is none other than Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10, for short. 

Found in nearly every tissue in your body, it makes sense that the highest concentrations of CoQ10 are found in the heart and liver, as these organs need a lot of energy to do their job.  It acts as a powerful antioxidant, maintains healthy blood vessels, can lower blood pressure, supports optimal functioning of the heart muscle and helps keep blood platelets from sticking together (that’s what causes those nasty blood clots!).   This powerful enzyme has been proven to aid in the prevention of multiple diseases such as asthma, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, migraine headaches and fibromyalgia.   Additionally, we’re monitoring newly emerging research that is showing significant benefit for Alzheimer’s disease, breast cancer, migraine headaches and Parkinson’s disease.

CoQ10 decreases as we age; however there are many commonly used medications that can cause CoQ10 levels to drop.  These include blood pressure medications such as beta blockers and some diuretics, as well as certain medications for Type 2 Diabetes.  The most well known medication causing CoQ10 depletion are those in the ‘statin’ class which are used to lower cholesterol (medications like Zocor, Lipitor, Crestor, etc).  In the case of cholesterol, the liver is the organ responsible for the production of cholesterol.  By blocking a key enzyme used in the process, statin medications are able to lower the liver’s production of cholesterol.  Interestingly enough, CoQ10 is made in the liver as part of this same process.  So, while one can benefit by having their cholesterol lowered by use of a statin medication, they are simultaneously blocking the production of CoQ10, a key nutrient for energy production.  Some researchers note that the CoQ10 depletion may trigger the dreaded muscle pains associated with statin use for some patients.

Foods that are high in CoQ10 include broccoli, nuts, salmon, pork, and spinach, or it can be taken as a supplemented nutrient.  This supplemented nutrient is not appropriate for everyone, especially those taking blood thinning medications.  Consult your provider if you have questions on whether Coenzyme Q10 would be a smart choice for you. 

Now You Know About CoQ10!

The information contained in this article is meant to serve as educational information only and cannot substitute for the medical advice of your healthcare provider.  If you believe you could benefit by any of the information contained in this article, we urge you to consult you provider.  We’re always glad to discuss your health with you!