Co-Enzyme Q 10

Co-Enzyme Q 10 refers to a chemical group within the quinone family.  The ten refers essentially to the number of isoprenyl units in the tail of this chemical.  Co-Enzyme Q 10 is more commonly known however as a vitamin. 

Co-Enzyme Q 10 is a vitamin soluble in oil.  It is responsible for the cellular respiration process and for generating energy.  It is therefore an essential component in organ health.  It is found in high concentration in the heart, liver and kidneys.
As a supplement Co-Enzyme Q 10 has been found to help especially with heart function.  This supplement helps to maintain healthy cardiovascular functioning by providing much needed oxygenation to this important organ.  It has recently been discovered that the deficiency in this essential vitamin is linked to long term chronic heart failure. 

More recent studies have found that Co-Enzyme Q 10 is also particularly helpful with migraine headaches.  It has been beneficial for some migraine sufferers.  In one study the results were found to be clinically significant with regards to the fact that supplemental Co-Enzyme Q 10 reduced the effects of migraines.  Dosages in this study were between 150-300 mg per day.

Co-Enzyme Q 10 is also being studied for its effects on cancer and cancer treatment side effects.  It is also being studied as a means of lowering blood pressure.  Another study found that Co-Enzyme Q 10 was beneficial for lowering systolic blood pressure by up to 17 mm HG and diastolic blood pressure as well without causing any significant or unwanted side-effects.  It is therefore potentially very useful for those suffering from hypertension and other heart and blood pressure related ailments.

Finally Co-Enzyme Q 10 has been shown to be helpful for a variety of periodontal diseases due to its tissue oxygenation effects.  Human clinical trials have shown a potential link between improved dental health, especially gum health and Co-Enzyme Q 10 supplementation.  Gingivitis and immune response in the gums has been improved by supplementation.

The best food sources of Co-Enzyme Q 10 are beef, pork, chicken especially the heart, liver and muscle of these foods and fish.  Non-meat sources include nuts, oils, and fruits and vegetables such as avocados, strawberries, parsley, broccoli and cauliflower.