What is CoenzymeQ-10?

Coenzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like substance whose actions resemble those of vitamin E. It is fat-soluble and is stored in the fatty tissues of the body, reducing the need to ingest large quantities. Since Coenzyme Q10 is oil soluble it is best absorbed when taken with oily or fatty foods, such as fish. Coenzyme Q was first discovered in 1957 by Professor F. L. Crane and colleagues at the University of Wisconsin Enzyme Institute. In 1958, its chemical structure was reported by Dr. D.E. Wolf and a research group at Merck Laboratories led by Dr. Karl Folkers. Coenzyme Q10 is made naturally by the human body.

Coenzyme Q10 is present in most tissues, but the highest concentrations are found in the heart, the liver, the kidneys, and the pancreas. The lowest concentration is found in the lungs .Tissue levels of this compound decrease as people age, due to increased requirements, decreased production, or insufficient intake of the chemical precursors needed for synthesis. In humans, normal blood levels of coenzyme Q10 have been defined variably, with reported normal values ranging from 0.30 to 3.84 ?g /ml.Good sources of Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) are mackerel, salmon, sardines, beef, Peanuts and spinach.

What is the effective dosage of Coenzyme Q10?

As an antioxidant 10 to 60 mg per day is effective. For boosting heart, weight loss and athletic performance higher dosages are required from 60 to 300 mg per day.

What are the benefits of coenzyme Q 10?

• CoQ plays an important role in the production of chemical energy in the mitochondria.
• Coenzyme Q10 also works as an antioxidant and may be more powerful than Vitamin E. An antioxidant is a substance that protects cells from free radicals, which are highly reactive chemicals, often containing oxygen atoms, capable of damaging important cellular components such as DNA and lipids.
• Coenzyme Q10 has shown an ability to stimulate the immune system and to protect the heart from damage caused by certain chemotherapy drugs.
• It plays a critical role in the production of energy in every cell of the body. It aids circulation, stimulates the immune system, increases tissue oxygenation, and has anti-aging effects. It has the ability to counter histamine, and therefore is beneficial for people with allergies, asthma, or respiratory disease. It has been used to treat schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease and is also beneficial in fighting obesity, candidiasis.
• It is proven that it improves heart fuction.

What are the side effects of coenzyme Q 10?

The use of Coenzyme Q10 has produced no serious side effects. Some Coenzyme Q10 patients have experienced a mild inability to sleep, liver enzymes levels have been elevated, rashes, nausea, and upper abdominal pain. There should always be some precautions when other prescription drugs are used in conjunction with Coenzyme Q10. The possible interaction between Coenzyme Q10 and prescribed drugs need to be discussed with a doctor. Most side effects of coenzyme Q10 were mild