Coenzyme Q10 is produced naturally in the body, helping it to convert food into energy. Normally obtained from fish, organ meat, and whole grains in the diet, it can also be found in supplement form. Supplements may be beneficial to health when taken alongside more conventional treatments. Potential positives include antioxidant action, healing enhancement, lowering of cholesterol, and improved metabolism.
As a supplement, coenzyme Q10 is thought to have excellent antioxidant value. It is believed to help neutralize free radicals in the body and may possibly both prevent and reduce related damage. If so, this would make Q10 potentially valuable in the treatment and prevention of cancer, which is commonly believed to be at least partly caused by DNA damage by free radicals. The antioxidant benefits of coenzyme Q10 also make it a popular ingredient in antiaging face creams.
The benefits of coenzyme Q10 may potentially include treating heart conditions and damage. As well as being an antioxidant, it can increase energy production in the cells, making the heart heal faster and work more effectively. It is also considered useful in preventing blood clots. In treating individuals who have had heart complications, Q10 is thought to help reduce swelling in the legs and reduce the buildup of fluid in the lungs. This subsequently can improve breathing and exercise capabilities in people recovering from heart conditions, increasing their ability to heal.
High cholesterol may be lowered by supplementation with coenzyme Q10, reducing cholesterol levels to within recommended limits. This idea is based on studies of patients with high cholesterol, many of whom displayed low levels of Q10. Even if it has no effect on the level of cholesterol, it has been found to help relieve the side effects of statins, which reduce the levels of Q10. Another potential benefit may be the lowering of high blood pressure.
Diabetics may also find a number of benefits of coenzyme Q10 supplements. Carbohydrate metabolism may be improved, which enables better management of blood sugar levels. Diabetes-related complications and damage to the pancreas may be reduced. The supplement's positive effects on heart health and blood pressure may also be beneficial for people with diabetes.
Other benefits of coenzyme Q10 are thought to include the prevention and treatment of gum disease, migraines, and obesity. It may also improve immune function, making it potentially useful in treating diseases such as HIV and AIDS. Sperm motility may also be enhanced, making it a possible option in fertility treatments. Benefits of coenzyme Q10 may also exist in the treatment of neurogenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Huntington's disease.
