Co-Enzyme Q10
Tissues that require the most energy (such as the heart) need the largest amounts of CO-Q-10. Angina is a condition where inadequate oxygen is available to the heart muscle itself. People with failing cardiac systems have shown to greatly benefit with increased strength and vigour when supplemented with CO-Q-10. People with high blood pressure usually have lower levels of CO-Q-10.
CO-Q-10 can naturally stimulate the immune system and result in a wider range of beneficial effects.
What is Co-Enzyme Q10
Co-Enzyme Q10 (Co-Q-10) is a quinone derivative with a tail, the number 10 referring to the length of the tail. It is also known as ubiquinone because it is ubiquitous in biological systems. Co-Q-10 is made within the body, but production falls, as we get older. Co-Q-10 is also found in foods, in particular raw meat, but cooking and processing tends to destroy it. This substance is particularly popular in Japan, where it is estimated that approximately 6 million people take a supplement daily.
The Benefits of Co-Q-10
Cardiovascular disease – A 75% reduction in the body’s Co-Q-10 level leads to the heart ceasing to function properly.
Blood pressure – It complements the action of blood pressure reducing drugs.
Gum disease – It has been shown to restore gum health by preventing the progress of gum diseases such as Pyrrohea and gingivitis, and increasing the rate of gum healing. Research has shown that diseased gums tend to have lower levels of Co-Q-10 than healthy gums.
Weight loss – Research has shown that some overweight people have low Co-Q-10 levels.
Tissue Hypoxia – A condition leading to conditions such as stomach ulcers. Co-Q-10 has been shown to be effective against this condition.
Ageing and the Immune System – studies with mice increased their lifespan by 50% with Co-Q-10 supplementation, and extended the youthfulness and ability to ward off infection.
Energy booster – Co-Q-10 has been shown to stimulate energy production in people feeling tired or run down.
Properties
Co-Q-10 plays a very important role at a very fundamental biochemical level as a carrier in a process known as the ‘electron transport’ chain. This process occurs with each cell and is the method by which the body produces energy.
Research
There has been extensive research done on Co-Q-10, since the early 1960’s, all over the world, particularly in Japan from the mid seventies. It was recognised early on as an important supplement, but it couldn’t be produced economically until the latter 1970’s.
Food Sources
Foods highest in coenzyme Q-10 include beef, spinach, sardines, albacore tuna, and peanuts.
Contra-indications/Precautions
There are no known drug interactions or other contra-indications with Co-Enzyme Q-10
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