What are they?
Coenzyme Q10, a.k.a. ubiquinone, is an important micronutrient in our body that is produced naturally. It is used up by the body cells for growth and maintenance. Ubiquinol is the active form of CoQ10 that is readily absorbed by the body to produce cellular energy for powering the heart and the other organs. After age 20, our body’s natural ability to create this vital micronutrient begins to decline, which is why it should be taken from external sources (Ubiquinol vs. CoQ10: What's The Difference? | Ubiquinol.org, n.d.).
What are the benefits of CoQ10/ubiquinol?
The benefits are listed below (Staff, 2020):
• Acts as an antioxidant and may reverse cellular damage induced by anti-cancer drugs and surgery. • Might help prevent and treat heart diseases • Help prevent and treat migraine headaches • Improves sperm quality (Keri, n.d.) • Provides cellular energy to body cells to carry out various vital functions
How should I take it?
CoQ10 is present in cold water fish, like tuna, salmon, mackerel, sardines and nuts, however, relying on these dietary sources alone to replenish our body’s optimal CoQ10 levels is not enough. Thereby, dietary supplements of CoQ10 are available in the form of chewable tablets, capsules, and liquid syrups.
Who should not take it?
Although ubiquinol is relatively safe, it is recommended to always consult with a healthcare provider before using any dietary supplements. For example, taking ubiquinol with blood-thinning medications will render the medication effect useless, so interaction in such cases is likely to occur. Other side effects that people may experience include digestive issues like pain in the upper abdominal region, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Some may experience rashes, irritability, fatigue, and headaches (Staff, 2020).
How much should I take?
There is no uniform dosage of CoQ10. If you have risk factors for heart disease such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, you could take 100 to 300 mg of CoQ10 daily. Some conditions may require higher dosages of 300–600 mg. Additionally, you should not take CoQ10 without a doctor's supervision. Talk to your doctor to see what dose is best for you.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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