Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a compound that helps to generate energy within the cells, which is why it’s so important in combating heart disease, poor brain function, and even cancer. The human body is supposed to naturally produce CoQ10, but it decreases with age. Therefore, we need to supplement as we get older. Recent research out of Kashan University of Medical Sciences (Iran, Nov. 2017) shows CoQ10’s benefits to diabetics.
For the study, 50 participants with diabetic nephropathy received either 100 mg daily of CoQ10 or a placebo for 12 weeks. Blood samples were collected before and after the treatment period, which were analyzed for insulin levels and other diabetes markers.
At the end of the trial, participants who received CoQ10 had significantly lowered serum insulin, less insulin resistance, lower AGE (advanced glycation endproducts) levels, and less oxidative stress as compared with measurements taken before treatment. The placebo group did not experience improvements.
The study results show tremendous promise for persons with diabetes and underscore the overall benefits of CoQ10 against many chronic disease conditions. The trial results were published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, Vol. 37, 2018*.
Optimal CoQ10 levels linked to better heart health and brain function
CoQ10 is created naturally in the body and stored within cellular mitochondria. The mitochondria are responsible for creating energy within the body and for protecting the cells from disease and oxidative damage.
It’s therefore no wonder that low levels of CoQ10 are associated with a range of diseases. The good news is that supplementation seems to be highly effective in reversing the effect of lowered CoQ10 caused by the aging process. Other research has linked optimal CoQ10 levels with improved heart health, fertility, anti-aging effects, relief from migraines and headaches, improved exercise performance, and avoiding dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and cancer.
CoQ10 has few, if any, (negative) side effects
The ideal dose of CoQ10 seems to be 90 mg to 200 mg per day, but amounts up to 500+ mg are well tolerated with no unwanted side effects. This supplement seems to be a must for anyone middle aged and above, but you should always check with your physician before starting any supplement routine.
When taking CoQ10, opt for the ubiquinol form, which is the main CoQ10 type produced in the body. Absorption can be slow, so taking CoQ10 with a meal containing a bit of healthy fats, like avocado or coconut oil, can help with the absorption process.
*DOI: 10.1080/07315724.2017.1386140. From an article by Dena Schmidt, staff writer, NaturalHealth365.com , May 14, 2019. NaturalHealth365.com invites all readers to share their articles with family and friends.