Kirsty's Vitality

Coenzyme Q10

Also known as ubiquinone, coenzyme Q10 is a substance which is similar to a vitamin, whose structure is something like a cross between vitamins E and K - this essential nutrient is vital for a balanced, healthy diet. Coenzyme Q10 is present in all of the body’s cells, but is particularly prevalent in the heart muscle.

What does it do?

Coenzyme Q10 is crucial for energy production in every one of our body’s cells, but its benefits don’t stop there. Incorporating coenzyme Q10 into a healthy diet will help with:

- Stimulating the immune system
- Oxygenation of body tissue
- Combating the effects of aging

In addition to the above, coenzyme Q10 is also used in the treatment of abnormalities in mental function, such as conditions like schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s.

Why is it essential?

In depth studies have shown that coenzyme Q10 can be essential for heart health, with over 12 million people in Japan taking supplements daily for this very reason.

It has been discovered that people with heart problems, including heart failure, have low levels of this valuable nutrient. In fact, following a 6 year study at the university of Texas, it was found that if people with congestive heart failure incorporated coenzyme Q10 into their treatment plan, alongside conventional medical treatments, their survival rate after 3 years increased from 25% to 75%.

Where can I find it?

The food sources that contain the highest levels of coenzyme Q10 are the oily types of fish; mackerel, salmon and sardines. However, you can also source coenzyme Q10 from beef, peanuts and spinach.

People who are being treated for high cholesterol with statins should take particular care to supplement their diets with coenzyme Q10, as this treatment takes this important nutrient out of the body, and therefore must be replaced.