Why should people take CoQ10?
Although CoQ10 plays a key role in the body, most healthy people naturally have enough CoQ10. There is some evidence that adding more—in the form of Coenzyme Q10 supplements—may be beneficial. Increasing age and certain medical conditions are associated with a decline in CoQ10 levels. However, in these cases, it is uncertain whether the addition of Coenzyme Q10 will have an impact.
CoQ10 has been used to treat many different conditions. There is evidence that coenzyme Q10 supplements can slightly lower blood pressure. CoQ10 is also used to treat heart failure and other heart diseases. When used in combination with conventional drugs, it may help to improve certain symptoms and reduce the risk of heart disease in the future, but the evidence is conflicting.
Although there is still controversy, some preliminary evidence suggests that Coenzyme Q10 may help prevent or treat the side effects of taking statin cholesterol drugs, such as muscle pain and liver problems.
Preliminary studies have shown that Coenzyme Q10 may slow down but not prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Additional research is needed to confirm this effect.
CoQ10 has also been studied as a preventive treatment for migraine, although it may take several months to work. It has also conducted research on low sperm counts, cancer, HIV, muscular dystrophy, Parkinson’s disease, gum disease and many other diseases. However, the study did not find any decisive benefits. Although CoQ10 is sometimes sold as an energy supplement, there is no evidence that it increases the energy of ordinary people.
How much coenzyme Q10 should you take?
There is no definite ideal dose of CoQ10. The dosage of Coenzyme Q10 used in the study ranges from 50 mg to 1,200 mg in adults, and is sometimes divided into several doses throughout the day. The typical daily dose is 100 mg to 200 mg. Follow the instructions on the bottle or get advice from your doctor or nutritionist. Remember that different supplement brands may have different ingredients and advantages.
Can you get CoQ10 naturally from food?
The content of CoQ10 naturally present in food is much lower than the content in supplements . Good food sources of CoQ10 include:
- Cold water fish such as tuna, salmon, mackerel and sardines
- Vegetable oil
- Meat
What are the risks of taking CoQ10?
- The side effects of CoQ10 seem to be rare and mild. They include diarrhea , nausea, and heartburn .
- risk. People with chronic diseases such as heart failure, kidney or liver problems, or diabetes should use this supplement with caution. CoQ10 may lower blood sugar levels and blood pressure.
- interactive. People taking blood thinners and thyroid medications and chemotherapy should consult their doctor before using CoQ10 supplements.
In view of the lack of evidence on its safety, it is not recommended that children, pregnant or breastfeeding women take Coenzyme Q10 supplements.