I recently did a health supplement review for a dear friend who has developed a heart-related issue. In the process I gained renewed appreciation of the key role of Coenzyme-Q10 in the health of the cardiovascular system. So much so that I decided it is worth highlighting this information for all of us.
Coenzyme Q10 – It’s All About Energy
Coenzyme Q10 (Co-Q10), or ubiquinone is a fat-soluble vitamin-like substance that is also a powerful antioxidant. Coenzyme Q10 helps convert food energy into cellular energy. It is an intrinsic enzyme produced by the body and a vital part of the body’s energy production. Specifically, it is used in the mitochondria of the cell to make energy. As such it plays a crucial role in sound muscle function, healthy nerve function, and good cardiovascular health. There is a concentration of Coenzyme Q10 in the heart and other organs with high-energy demands.
Though Co-Q10 can be produced by the body and is found in trace amounts in some foods, there are several ways that one can become deficient.
- As you age, your body naturally produces less Coenzyme Q10.
- At least 8 vitamins and several trace minerals are required for the body to produce Co-Q10 from the amino acid tyrosine. A deficiency in any one of these nutrients can interfere with the body’s natural production.
- Statin drugs (those prescribed to reduce cholesterol levels such as Lipitor) are known to deplete the body’s level of Co-Q10.
- Deficient levels of Co-Q10 are directly correlated with congestive heart failure and cardiomyopathy; regardless of whether it results from high blood pressure, arterial disease of a viral infection.
- The body’s excessive use of Co-Q10 due to a medical condition (periodontal disease, cancer, heart disease and diabetes for example).
- Excessive exercise (leading many professional athletes to supplement with additional Co-Q10).
USANA Product Highlight – CoQuinone 30
USANA continues its unparalleled combination of quality and science in CoQuinone 30. Combining alpha-lipoic acid with Coenzyme Q10 has created a fantastic supplement of these energy-supporting nutrients. Alpha lipoic acid is another component involved in mitochondrial energy metabolism and recycling oxidized Co-Q10. This system also helps to regenerate and recycle other antioxidants, including vitamins E and C and glutathione.
The CoQuinone 30 formula is clinically proven to deliver more Co-Q10 to the blood stream than competing products. In addition, several human clinical trials demonstrate CoQ10’s effectiveness in maintenance of good heart function.
You can read more about CoQuinone 30 here.