Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 or Ubiquinone is found in every cell in the body. Its main function is to serve as a catalyst to convert the food we eat into energy. Coenzyme Q10 has attracted interest for its potential as an antioxidant. Various studies have suggested that this coenzyme could play a role in protecting the body against tissue damage from heart attacks, heart disease, retina deterioration, breast cancer, as well as a number of other diseases.

Over 400 patients with various forms of cardiovascular disease (enlarged heart, hypertension, mitral valve prolapse, and heart valve disease) were treated with coenzyme Q10 at the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston between 1985 and 1993. Patients in the disease category showed a significant improvement in heart function, and the overall medication requirements dropped considerably. Researchers concluded that coenzyme Q10 is a safe and effective treatment for a broad range of cardiovascular diseases (Molecular Aspects of Medicine, 1994, 15 Supplement). Another study in Nappoli, Italy showed that patients with chronic heart failure had improved heart responses during exercise when given coenzyme Q10 (Molecular Aspects of Medicine, 1994, 15 Supplement). Studies show that people taking cholesterol-lowering drugs may experience a significant decrease in coenzyme Q10 (Clinical Investigation, 1993) & (Molecular Aspects of Medicine, 1997, 18 Supplement). One might conclude that it would be advisable for these people to supplement with coenzyme Q10.