Coenzyme Q10 - A Powerful
Antioxidant In the Treatment of
Cardiovascular Disease

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10 is a powerful and especially effective natural antioxidant that has been available for years in Europe and Japan. There are 10 common substances designated coenzyme Qs, but CoQ10 is the only one found in human tissue. CoQ10 is a fat-soluble molecule that does several important functions, such as neutralizing free radicals. For example, it helps vitamins C and E to detoxify superoxide anion, and reduces the oxidation of cholesterol in the vascular wall. The "Q" in coenzyme Q10 stands for quinone, a molecule that is similar to Vitamin E. The "10" stands for the molecule's 10 units of carbon atoms.

All of us produce CoQ10 internally, and it is present in every cell in the body. In order for our cells to produce ATP, the energy that is used to keep us going, there must be CoQ10. Unfortunately, as we get older, our natural production of CoQ10 diminishes, leading researchers to believe that low levels of this antioxidant contribute to age-related diseases, such as cardiovascular problems and cancer. Some of the best food sources of CoQ10 are mackarel, salmon, sardines, nuts, and such organ meats as liver. Additional supplementation of CoQ10 can provide many health benefits, especially if you are over the age of 50.

Because CoQ10 is fat-soluble, it is best absorbed when taken with oily or fatty food, such as fish. You should be cautious when buying CoQ10, as not all supplement companies provide it in its purest form. Its natural color is dark bright yellow to orange, and is almost tasteless in the powdered form. Store it away from heat and light. Pure coenzyme Q10 is perishable and will deteriorate in temperatures above 115 degrees F. A supplement that is oil-based is preferable, and if it includes a small amount of vitamin E it will help preserve it.

CoQ10 interacts with enzymes present in the body to cause chemical reactions that neutralize free radicals, converting them into something safe before they can oxidize LDL cholesterol. In addition, it stimulates the activity of other natural antioxidants in the body, working synergistically with them to keep them regenerating, which helps protect the endothelium and its ability to produce nitric oxide.

Research has shown that supplemental CoQ10 has the ability to counter histamine, which is beneficial for people with allergies, asthma, and respiratory disease. It is also used by many healthcare professionals to treat mental function abnormalities, such as those found with schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. It also provides benefits in fighting obesity, candidiasis, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes.

American scientists are now considering it as a breakthrough in the treatment of cardiovascular disease. A six-year study by scientists at the University of Texas showed that patients being treated for congestive heart failure who took coenzyme Q10 in addition to conventional therapy had a 75 percent chance of survival after three years, compared to a 25 percent survival rate for those using conventional therapy alone. In a similar study by the University of Texas and the Center for Adult Diseases in Japan, CoQ10 was shown to be able to lower blood pressure without medication or dietary changes.

Other research has shown CoQ10 to be effective in reducing mortality rates in experimental animals who have tumors and leukemia. Some doctors give CoQ10 to their patients who have had chemotherapy to reduce the side effects.

CoQ10 is very popular in Japan where more than 12 million people are taking it for the treatment of heart disease, under their physician's direction, due to its ability to strengthen the heart muscle, lower blood pressure, and enhance the immune system. Studies in Japan have also shown that it protects the stomach lining and duodenum, and may heal duodenal ulcers.

There is a tremendous amount of research which shows that statin drugs, used to decrease blood cholesterol levels, lower levels of coenzyme Q10. If you are currently taking a statin drug, you should read this article regarding the effects of statin drugs on CoQ10 levels.

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