Coenzyme Q 10 is required for
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is naturally present in
foods, and can be synthesized by the body from
the amino acid tyrosine during a multistage (17
stages) process requiring eight vitamins and
several trace elements.
One of the best-known effects of this
compound is its antioxidant qualities as well as
the control it exercises on the flow of oxygen
within cells, assistance with cardiovascular
functioning, the production of energy, its
assistance with absorption of other nutrients as
well as its immune boosting properties.
“The
use of CoQ10 in
heart disease has been documented in trials. CoQ10 deficiency
is common in cardiac patients. Biopsy results from heart tissue
in patients with various cardiovascular diseases showed a CoQ10 deficiency
in 50% to 75% of the cases”
Studies on mice showed an increase of 50%
extension of life span with CoQ10.
It is the Coenzyme Q10 that is the coenzyme
for at least three mitochondrial enzymes as well
as other enzymes in the cell. The mitochondrial
enzymes are essential for the production of
high-energy adenosine phosphates (ATP).
It has been found to be effective with a
variety of health problems, and great promise
has been shown in assisting with cancer
treatment, protecting patients undergoing
chemotherapy. Studies showed that patients
taking 90 mg of this compound experienced less
pain and increase in appetite and decreased
metastases.
Studies using 300 -900 mg, reported partial
or total remission. People who stay thin and
slim, yet eat a lot have much higher levels of
this compound in their blood, and it also
assists with fuel efficiency within the cells,
which also assists weight loss.
People suffering from periodontal disease may
also be deficient in this compound, as it has a
protective and strengthening action in all
tissues. (This is why it is also beneficial to
the heart muscle.)
Deficiency of Coenzyme Q10
When we are deficient of this compound in our
system, our general health will start
deteriorating and should levels drop 25% below
the optimum levels, many diseases may start
progressing, diseases like high blood pressure,
heart attack, angina, immune depression,
periodontal disease, lack of energy and weight
gain.
People suffering from congestive heart
failure and taking coenzyme Q10 should NOT stop
taking it suddenly since sudden withdrawal may
intensify the symptoms of congestive heart
failure.
Dosage
The dosage underneath is the
Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA), but be
aware that this dosage is the minimum that you
require per day, to ward off serious deficiency
of this particular nutrient. In the therapeutic
use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually
increased considerably, but the toxicity level
must be kept in mind.
No recommendation has been set.
Toxicity and symptoms of high intake
Toxicity and side effects are not known, but
pregnant or breast-feeding mothers should not
take it in supplement form.
In extreme dosages, such as 600 - 1200 mg per
day headaches, heartburn, fatigue, diarrhea and
skin reactions have been reported.
Best used with
Since the compounds are fat soluble, it is
best to take it with dietary fat present.
When more may be required
Should the liver perform under par, it cannot
manufacture Q10 from the other Q coenzymes, and
this production also diminish with age.
People suffering from angina, HIV, male
infertility, diabetes, periodontal disease, high
blood pressure, cancer and receiving
chemotherapy could benefit from an increase in
CoQ10.
Food sources of Coenzyme Q10
Good sources are found in beef, soy,
mackerel, sardines, spinach, peanuts, soybeans
and vegetable oil.
