Q10 enzymes are naturally occurring compounds found in every cell in the body. They are fat-soluble and are a vital part of the complex process that produces energy within a cell. This compound is officially referred to as coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), and it is a known antioxidant. Q10 enzymes can be taken like vitamin supplements and are especially popular in Japan. Many studies have been done on the effectiveness of Q10 supplements in treating conditions such as heart disease and high blood pressure.
Low levels of Q10 enzymes have shown to correlate with instances of heart failure, and the severity of the deficiency also seems to match up with the severity of the heart condition. These findings have led to many studies into the efficiency of Q10 enzyme supplements in treating heart conditions. These studies have been done in many countries across the world and have found that the enzyme improves heart muscle function and produces no adverse side effects or interactions with other medications.
Q10 enzymes also have been studied as a treatment for a variety of other conditions, such as heart problems associated with diabetes and breast cancer. These have met with varying results. The studies on diabetes-related heart conditions have generally had positive results, but a possible increased risk of hypoglycemia has been identified. The breast cancer studies also appear to be generally positive, but the results have not necessarily been a result of the Q10 enzymes, because the women who were studied also received other supplements, such as vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium.
Many claims of the effectiveness of Q10 enzymes revolve around its role as an antioxidant. Antioxidants are known to fight “free radicals” in the body, which are cells throughout the body that attack diseased or defective cells. Free radicals also occasionally attack healthy cells and are believed to contribute to many conditions, from aging to the development of cancer.
Some people believe that taking antioxidants, such as Q10 enzymes, reduces the amount of these free radicals and therefore reduces the risk of the conditions they may cause. The reality of the situation isn’t quite so simplistic, however. There has been no reliable evidence found to support the idea that taking antioxidants reduces the effects of aging or the likelihood of contracting cancer.
Q10 enzymes are present in many everyday food products, such as beef, sardines and peanuts. The concentration is generally quite low, however, and a person would have to a large amount of such foods in order to consume a small amount of Q10 enzymes. The enzymes are available in supplements, which provide the dosage in a more easily manageable form.
