What is CoQ10?

CoQ10 is also known as Co Enzyme Q10. It is a fat-soluble compound which is important to our overall health as it is present in almost every single cell in our body; found in the mitochondria which is inside our cells. Our mitochondria are often called the powerhouses of our cells as they provide energy for us, but why is CoQ10 inside the mitochondria? The role CoQ10 plays is that it helps transfer electrons between other molecules which then creates electrical energy inside the mitochondria. This energy is in the form of ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) which is a fuel for almost every biological process in our body. We can therefore see how Co Q10 plays a vital role in cell energy production for our body.

Our body can produce its own CoQ10 but unfortunately production decreases as we age and as a result, our levels reduce as we get older. This can result in a decline in mitochondrial function which is thought to play a part in the ageing process which occurs throughout the body including a woman’s eggs and a man’s sperm.

Co Q10 is also an antioxidant which means it protects cells from oxidative damage. Large amounts of free radicals can lead to oxidative damage which is known to interfere with cell functioning which can lead to many different health conditions.

Can we get Co Q 10 in our diet?

Although our body can make its own supply of CoQ10, we can also obtain some from our food. It is found in differing amounts in many foods including:

• oily fish (such as mackerel, salmon, sardines and anchovies)
• eggs
• organ meats
• nuts
• whole grains

How does Co Q 10 work?

Our mitochondria use CoQ10 to produce ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) which is the primary source of energy for the body’s cells. We know, however, that the mitochondria produce free radicals during this ATP production, and excess free radicals can damage our DNA which can lead to health problems. CoQ10 helps prevent this by acting as an antioxidant and neutralising free radicals. By doing this, CoQ10 helps protect our cells from the harmful effects of DNA damage.

What are the benefits of Co Q 10?

Because CoQ10 helps protect our cells against oxidative damage and plays a vital role in producing ATP (our primary source of energy), CoQ10 plays an important role in many aspects of human health.

Is Co Q10 only beneficial for women?

No! CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant and is present at high levels in sperm. It is thought that the reason for this is to protect sperm from oxidative damage as well as to help with sperm cell energy production and motility.

Should I take a Co Q10 supplement?

We know that CoQ10 is important for energy making and that it is in every single cell in our body. We also know that as we age, the body may not be able to make enough CoQ10 and that it can be difficult to get enough through our food.

What form of Co Q10 is best?

You may have seen CoQ10 for sale already or read about it. If so, you may have noticed that there are two different types – Ubiquinol and Ubiquinone. Both forms of CoQ10 are used by the body, but the difference is that Ubiquinone is the oxidised form and Ubiquinol is the active form which means Ubiquinol is thought to have a higher absorption rate as it is already in the form that the body naturally makes.

For more information on Zita West Kaneka Ubiquinol click here.