Normally, we absorb CoQ10 through some of the foods that we eat (especially through non-vegetarian staple like fish and meats). However, the healthy body, especially when younger, produces its own CoQ10, which is found throughout. Due to this fact and due to its quinone-like structure (as in vitamin K), CoQ10 is also known as ubiquinone.
CoQ10’s two main functions in the body lie in the role it plays in the synthesis of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and as mentioned above, in its anti-oxidant action. Both of which are interrelated. As you will know, ATP of course, is the body’s major form of stored energy. Without an adequate supply of ATP the human metabolism starts to severely malfunction. Therefore, since most cellular functions are dependent on an adequate supply of ATP, CoQ10 is essential for the health.
Given CoQ10’s pivotal role for the human metabolism, it comes as no surprise that Dr. Alan Gaby MD had to point out the adverse effects of a lack of CoQ10 in the body in the ‘Alternative Medicine Review’ in 1996. He stated, “That tissue deficiencies and subnormal serum levels of CoQ10 have been discovered and reported, for example in cardiovascular disease, hypertension, periodontal disease, as well as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). In addition, CoQ10 levels decline with advancing age, and this decline might contribute in part to some of the manifestations of aging.” In other words, if CoQ10 levels go down, ill health, or signs of aging, or both ensue.
From this then logically follows that, in case that CoQ10 levels have indeed decreased, they will have to be brought up again, if we want to stay healthy – or keep a client healthy. Which is achievable. Oral intake can bring the tissue levels of CoQ10 back up again. Therefore, the deficiency is indeed correctable through supplementation. The benefits have turned out to be far reaching in many cases.
It would go beyond the scope of a short blog posting to cover all the advantages of CoQ10, and all aspects of its application, including dosage in depth. However, skimming the surface will give you enough of ideas that you may either follow up with your own research or to even come to a preliminary conclusion regarding the usefulness of this versatile supplement.
CoQ10 in the Treatment of AIDS
According to one study by Folkers, Langsjoen and Nara, none of the patients involved in it developed additional opportunistic infections during a 4-7 month follow-up period. Among other results, this study shows the CoQ10 deficiency is common in patients with HIV infection, and that supplementation with CoQ10 may improve immune function and reduce both risk and incidence of opportunistic infections.
CoQ10 in the Treatment of Cancer:
A study by Lockwood, Moesgard, Yamamoto and Folkers showed that women with breast cancer improved significantly after having been administered 390mg of CoQ10 per day. After treatment with CoQ10 for 11 months all of the liver metastases had disappeared in one woman. In another women the pleural fluid had completely resolved after six months, and she was reported in excellent health.
CoQ10 in the Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease
We have written about CoQ10 in the treatment of heart conditions in several previous postings. (See: http://healthyhealingcentergoa.blogspot.in/2011/11/co-enzyme-q10-coq10-in-treatment-of.html, http://healthyhealingcentergoa.blogspot.in/2011/09/coq10-potential-use-in-heart-conditions_28.html, http://healthyhealingcentergoa.blogspot.in/2011/09/coenzyme-q10-in-congestive-heart.html, http://healthyhealingcentergoa.blogspot.in/2011/08/coenzyme-q10-coq10-supplementation.html, http://healthyhealingcentergoa.blogspot.in/2011/06/co-enzyme-q10-coq10-in-treatment-of.html) - Here is a summary in Dr. Alan Gaby’s words: “Enhancing myocardial functions is an important, though frequently overlooked component of the overall prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. CoQ10 plays a key role in energy production and is therefore essential for all energy-dependent processes, including heart muscle contraction. CoQ10 deficiency has been documented in patients with various types of cardiovascular disease. It is not clear whether a decline in CoQ10 levels is a primary cause or a consequence of heart disease. However, given the fundamental involvement of CoQ10 in myocardial function, it is not unlikely that CoQ10 deficiency would exacerbate heart disease and that correction of such deficiency would have therapeutic value.”
CoQ10 in Geriatrics:
Oxidative damage of cell structures acts as a destructive factor in the functional declines that accompany aging. Due to its supportive role for metabolic function CoQ10 supplementation will slow down and partially reverse the process. Which does not infer that it also will prolong life; it may or it may not. However, CoQ10 will make life more livable and enjoyable for the aged. As an aside, many of the pioneer scientists involved in anti-oxidant research lived not only long lives, but were productive and active to the end; in other words: CoQ10 kept them free of age related signs of degeneration.
CoQ10 in General Immune Function:
Several studies by Mayer, Hamberger, Drews, Siaki, Takashima, Nishimura and others have demonstrated that CoQ10 supplementation can enhance immune function.
CoQ10 in the Treatment of Muscular Dystrophy
People affected by muscular dystrophy have been diagnosed with lacking CoQ10 in muscle mitochondria. In a double-blind study, twelve patients with progressive muscular dystrophy were given 100mg of CoQ10 daily, for three months. The subjects commented on several improvements that they were noticing in the course of the trial and thereafter: “increased exercise tolerance, reduced leg pain, better control of leg function and less fatigue.”
CoQ10 in the Treatment of Periodontal Disease:
Studies by Nakamura, Littarru, Folkers, Hansen, Iwamoto and others have proven the link between CoQ10 and the healing of periodontal disease. Gingival biopsies revealed subnormal tissue levels of CoQ10 in 60% to 96% patients with periodontal disease, and low levels in leukocytes in 86% of cases. These findings indicate that periodontal disease is frequently associated with CoQ10 deficiency.
CoQ10 in Enhancing Physical Performance
According to Nutriline, in a recent study, 25 elite cross-country skiers were put through an intensive 6-week training program. During the program, half of the skiers took CoQ10, while the rest were given a placebo. Gains in aerobic fitness were measured. They were more than three times higher in the CoQ10 group than in the skiers who had received the placebo supplements.