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Coenzyme Q10: The Energy and Oxygen Supplier
Originally published in Natural Living Magazine Volume 2 - Issue 1There are many elements essential to life such as oxygen, water, vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. You could not live more than a few minutes without oxygen, a few days without water, or a few weeks without food. Another substance that we now know we cannot live without is a coenzyme known as CoQ10. If levels of CoQ10 in the cells drop, so does the general level of health. Scientists have found that once levels of CoQ10 become more than 25% deficient then diseases take over. These range from heart problems, high blood pressure, immune system deficiencies, gum disorders, and even cancer. CoQ10, also known as ubiquinone, is a naturally-occurring substance found in every cell of our bodies. Our bodies make CoQ10, but production declines as we age since the liver loses its ability to synthesize CoQ10. Certain Amino Acids, Vitamins, Minerals and Trace Elements are needed for the production of CoQ10. If any one is missing, it will inhibit the production of CoQ10. Natural sources include fatty fish, organ meats, and peanuts. These foods are also very high in saturated fats and cholesterol, so people tend to avoid them-especially those with heart disease which seems to be the type of people most deficient in CoQ10. In this case, supplementation of CoQ10 is a wise decision. It helps to transform the food we eat into energy.
According to Dr. Emile Bliznakov, author of The Miracle Nutrient Coenzyme Q10, "CoQ10 is a vital catalyst in the reaction of the energy that cells need for life. Without CoQ10, the chain of cellular energy is broken and without energy, life ceases." CoQ10 is found more abundantly in the cells of some organs as compared to others. The highest concentrations are found in those organs that need the largest supply of energy and oxygen. High concentrations of CoQ10 are found in the heart muscle because it is constantly beating, in the liver which is involved with human biochemistry, and in the immune cells which fight off bacterial and viral invasions on a continual basis. The gums also have substantial energy requirements. CoQ10 has been used with great success to help relieve inflammation in this tissue.
CoQ10 has an antioxidant effect in the body. It helps stabilize free radicals, which can cause damage to cells. CoQ10 also helps to prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which can begin the buildup of plaque on the artery walls and lead to heart disease. A sufficient intake of CoQ10 will help regenerate other antioxidants such as Vitamin E. Antioxidants are of signigicant concern today due to the overabundance of toxic chemicals and heavy metals in air pollution, radiation, smoking, second hand smoke, and pharmaceutical drugs. They can even be generated by exercise. Dr. Steven T. Sinatra, in his book Coenzyme Q10 and the Heart, concludes that the heart muscle is the most responsive tissue in the body to CoQ10 supplementation. This makes CoQ10 a very important nutrient for the treatment of cardiovascular disorders. CoQ10 plays an essential role in immunity. It is important to note that CoQ10 does not increase production of new immune cells, but actually increases the potential of the already existing cells and their chemical defenses. In some cases, such as auto-immune diseases, an increase in immune cells is not required.
With CoQ10's ability to speed up or make the metabolism of energy production more efficient, it would be of benefit for those trying to lose weight and for those trying to maintain weight loss. Too many times people will lose weight but gain it back again after their normal eating habits resume. CoQ10 may aid in maintaining weight loss by speeding up energy production and metabolism.
CoQ10 has been shown to be beneficial for those undergoing surgery. Keeping in mind that this aspect has been examined for its effect in protecting tissues against the potentially adverse side effects of major surgery. Working at the mitochondrial level, it helps to reinforce the health of damaged or ailing tissues, such as those that have to be subjected to the trauma of surgery.
Supplementing with CoQ10 is a wise decision. You would have to eat one pound of sardines or two pounds of peanuts just to get 30mg of CoQ10. It is best taken with a meal where some fat is present since it is a fat-soluble molecule. Doses of supplements range from 30-75mg and may have the herb Hawthorn added for extra protection for the heart.
CoQ10 has been used by millions on a daily basis with no serious side effects being reported with long term use. One to three months may be needed to saturate deficient tissues, because the synthesis of new CoQ10-dependent enzymes is a slow process. CoQ10 has been taken by people who are on heart medications but should be done under the supervision of your doctor. Because CoQ10 strengthens the heart muscle, it may reduce requirements of prescription heart stimulants. Adjusting dosages of prescription drugs is best left to a physician.
Doctors and scientists are accepting the fact that CoQ10 can be used to strengthen the immune system, protect against the effects of aging, promote weight loss, reduce high blood pressure, strengthen a healthy or a weakened heart, and cure periodontal disease. Make health a habit and supplement your diet with CoQ10.
By Sharie Hohn, Master Herbalist
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