There is so much more to CoQ10 that a whole chapter of a
book could be dedicated to this powerful co-enzyme. For my post and informational purposes, I
will try to hit the highlights without going too much into the science and just
stick with what you really may be interested in knowing.
CoQ10 is a co-enzyme naturally produced by the body. The ‘Q10’ refers to the chemical compound
that makes up the co-enzyme. It is used
to produce energy in the body to grow and be healthy. The antioxidant property protects cells from
harmful free radicals and helps to build the immune system. However,
as a person gets older, the levels produced by the body begin to decline, this decline
can also occur in those with Vitamin B6 deficiency.
CoQ10 role and benefits as an anti-cancer agent were
discovered over 50 years ago. Numerous
studies have been conducted around its use against cancer. It was determined that patients with cancers
in the breast, colon, lungs, pancreas, kidney and prostate had lower levels of
CoQ10 in their blood. As a powerful antioxidant
it can help in the prevention and fighting of certain infections and cancer.
CoQ10 along with other supplements and therapies can also help aid in the healing of the following:
·
Heart
Attacks
·
Heart
Failure
·
Lower
High Blood Pressure
·
Slows
Aging Process
·
Heal Gums/Repair
(problems with swelling, redness, pain and bleeding)
·
Improve
Blood Sugar Levels
·
Treatment
of Migraines
·
Male
Fertility
·
Parkinson’s
Disease
CoQ10 can be found in broccoli, beef, salmon, sardines,
mackerel, soy oils and peanuts. Vitamin
B6 can be obtained from fish, chicken breast, avocado, tomato, chickpeas and
sunflower seeds (this not an inclusive list).
Many diets have an inadequate supply and that is why sometimes it is
important to supplement. If you are taking a Statin drug, talk to your doctor about supplementing with CoQ10 as Statins can deplete our body of CoQ10. In addition, there can be side effects to supplements and contraindications with other medications and supplements as well. So I recommend first consulting with your primary doctor to be sure it is right for you and you are following the right protocol for what you need.
Be Well,
Jamie Lee, MS, CI, DNM, IMD