CoenzymeQ10: What's so Great About it?
CoQ10, the Antioxidant with a Variety of Benefits
Oct 27, 2008
CoQ10 is produced by the human body and is necessary for the basic function of cells. CoenzymeQ10 (CoQ10) is also known by another name, Ubiquinone, which comes from the word, ubiquitous, meaning "everywhere." The body uses it for cell growth, to protect us from damage that could lead to cancer, to help boost the immune system and to help the body convert food into energy.
CoQ10 levels are reported to decrease with age and to be low in patients with some chronic diseases such as heart conditions, muscular dystrophy, Parkinson's disease, cancer, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS.
Levels of CoQ10 can be increased by taking supplements in pill form, but according to the Mayo Clinic, it still remains controversial as a treatment in many areas at this time. Here are a few of their findings.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Early studies show that CoenzymeQ10 may help age-related macular degeneration. More research is needed before a recommendation can be made.
Alzheimer's Disease
Promising preliminary evidence suggests that CoQ10 supplements may slow down, but not cure, dementia in people with Alzheimer's disease.
Angina
Preliminary small human studies suggest that CoQ10 may reduce angina (chest pain from clogged heart arteries), and improve exercise tolerance in people with clogged heart arteries. Better studies are still needed before a firm recommendation can be made.
Breast Cancer
Small studies have been done on the use of CoQ10 in patients with breast cancer. In a study of CoQ10 in 32 breast cancer patients, it was reported that some signs and symptoms of cancer went away in six patients. Researchers reported that all the patients in the study used fewer pain meds, had improved quality of life, and did not lose weight during treatment.
It is not clear if the benefits reported were caused by CoQ10 therapy or something else. More definitive studies are needed, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Early studies show that CoQ10 may improve symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. High quality research is needed before a decision can be made.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Preliminary research suggests that CoQ10 causes small decreases in blood pressure. Low blood levels of CoQ10 have been found in people with hypertension but it's not clear if the CoQ10 deficiency is a cause of high blood pressure. Long-term research is needed to strengthen this recommendation.
Dr. Sinatra's View of CoQ10
A nationally recognized expert in the field of cardiology, Dr. Sinatra, founder of the New England Heart and Longevity Center, integrates conventional medical treatments for heart disease with complementary nutritional and anti-aging therapy. He advocates the health benefits of CoQ10 in a supplement combined with fish oil. Dr. Sinatra promotes good health through natural healing methods.
Dr. Sinatra tells us, "if you want a heart that will give you good service for life, as well as strong healthy arteries and good circulation, this is the one supplement you need." At the bottom of his website you will read, "these statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease."
So, who do we believe in a world full of choices?
Safety of CoQ10
The National Cancer Institute instructs the public to "consult your doctor before trying CoQ10, especially if you have heart disease, kidney failure or cancer." The side effects of CoQ10 may include diarrhea, rash, insomnia, dizziness, heartburn, headache, light sensitivity, irritability.
The safety of CoQ10 in pregnant or nursing women or children has not been established.
Although CoQ10 seems to be in the forefront of supplemental antioxidants, there are questions that still need to be answered.
Sources:
National Cancer Institute
National Institutes of Health
Mayo Clinic
DrSinatra.com
