CoQ10 supplements are becoming more and more popular in the health and wellness space today. However, a lot of people are wondering just how effective they are. Is this a legit health phenomenon or just another marketing gimmick?
What Is CoQ10?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a naturally occurring substance found in nearly every cell in the human body. This chemical compound helps turn food into energy.
CoQ10 is also a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants are needed to fight harmful particles in the body called free radicals. These particles can hurt cell membranes, change your DNA, and also kill cells completely.
It is believed that free radicals also contribute to the aging process. They can even be linked to conditions such as heart disease and cancer.
Health Benefits of CoQ10
CoQ10 supplements can be used to treat or prevent a myriad of health conditions. There is some evidence to suggest that CoQ10 can aid with heart-related requirements, as it can boost energy production in cells and stop blood clot formation.
For instance, taking daily CoQ10 supplements within three days of a heart attack could lessen the chance of heart attack and chest pain. They can also be used in combination with other medications to treat heart failure. Patients with congestive heart failure can also benefit from CoQ10 supplements.
High blood pressure also may be treatable with CoQ10. According to a few clinical studies, CoQ10 could effectively lower systolic blood pressure by up to 17 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 10 mm Hg. However, it could take 4 to 12 weeks to see improvement.
Some have suggested that CoQ10 supplements can be used to treat high cholesterol. It may neutralize side effects caused by statins, which are conventional cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Gum disease is another ailment that can be treated with CoQ10 supplements. A few studies suggest that they can help repair tissue faster in the gums.
Keep in mind; you should always check with your doctor before starting a new supplement or medication. There is still a lot of research that needs to be done before CoQ10 can be hailed as the cure-all medicine it’s being marketed as.
What Age to Take Coq10
Many people are familiar with CoQ10 products but aren’t sure when to take coq10. This supplement can be a life-changer for many, but it’s crucial to handle it responsibly.
For one, you should not give CoQ10 supplements to any person under the age of 18 unless it’s under the supervision of a licensed health professional.
Dosage
If you’re 19 or older, the recommended daily dose for CoQ10 supplements is 30 to 200 mg. Depending on what condition you’re treating, though, higher doses may be needed.
Never take a higher dose than the recommended amount. You may think that you’re helping your body, but you could be causing it more harm.
Solubility
CoQ10 is fat-soluble, which means you should take it after a meal. For the supplement to be activated, it must be bound to some form of fat. Some people have also suggested that CoQ10 is more soluble at night.
Additionally, soft gels are usually absorbed easier than capsules and other preparations. So if you’re looking for fast results, opt for a CoQ10 supplement that comes in soft gels.
Safety
As mentioned, you shouldn’t ever start taking a new supplement or medication without the approval of your health provider. However, there are also some other health precautions you should take.
To start, you should be aware of the potential interactions CoQ10 has with certain medications. Then, ask your doctor if it’s safe to combine CoQ10 with the current medications you’re on.
You should also be aware of the side effects that CoQ10 may impart. For the most part, the side effects of this supplement are rare. However, some users may experience an upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea, and heartburn.
If you are undergoing chemotherapy, you should ask your oncologist before using any CoQ10 products. Some evidence suggests that CoQ10 weakens chemotherapy medications. Similarly, some blood-thinning medicines can be made less effective by CoQ10.
On the other hand, some studies suggest that CoQ10 can help decrease toxic effects on the heart caused by certain chemotherapy medications. When in doubt, ask your doctor what medications and supplements to take.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should stay away from CoQ10 supplements. Unfortunately, there is very little research regarding this topic, so for now, you’re better off safe than sorry!