The chemical name for Q10 is 2,3-dimethoxy-5-methyl-6-decaprenyl-1,4-benzoquinone. Q10 is just easier to say!
Coenzyme Q10 is very important for the body's resistance towards diseases. The substance is a strong antioxidant and supplements of Q10 are often used in for high blood pressure, heart problems and parodontosis.
Q10 has also been applied in the treatment of cancer with quite interesting results.
There is reason to believe that one of the reasons why Q10 is effective against several diseases is its strong antioxidant effect which prevents free radicals from causing damage.
Free radicals are poisonous to the body. They cause a lot of damage and must be neutralized. They attack healthy cells and can damage our hereditary material or cause cancer. Free radicals are associated with as many as 200 diseases.
Coenzyme Q10 works in combination with vitamin C and vitamin E to prevent blood cholesterol from being oxidized, which reduces the risk of thromboses and atherosclerosis. It goes without saying that these two vitamins must be taken with Q10.
Several hospitals all over the world now include Q10 in the treatment of cardiovascular disease.
Coenzyme Q10 is naturally prevalent in small amounts in meat, chicken, fatty fish, cereals, and several vegetables.
The body produces Q10 itself from other co-enzymes. Food needs to go through chemical digestion to be transformed into Q10. Some elderly or ill people have lost this ability and therefore have a particular need of supplements. Hard exercise consumes large amounts of Q10.
Because Q10 is a so-called lipophilic substance, supplements are best taken with fats. This is best achieved by taking Q10 with meals.
How much?
Coenzyme Q10 has no side effects even in relatively large doses. For illnesses such as cancer or immune deficiency, 300 mg. daily can be used. The normal preventive dosage is generally accepted to be approximately 30 mg. daily.
Many people feel an energy boost when taking Q10. For this reason it should be taken either in the morning or in the middle of the day. The effect is normally felt after 4-6 hours.
- Supplements of co-enzyme Q10 do not disturb the body's ability to form Q10 naturally.
- Q10 is recommended and taken by many athletes to improve muscle- and energy production.
- Q10 is not on the doping list
- Q10 delays the ageing process
Some kinds of cholesterol-lowering medicine inhibit the body's ability to produce Q10. Therefore it is a good idea to take Q10 supplements when taking cholesterol-lowering medicine. (100 mg Q10 per 20 mg cholesterol-lowering medicine).
People taking blood-diluting medication should consult their doctor before taking Q10.
