Coenzyme Q10, usually shortened to CoQ10, is found in nearly every cell in your body. It plays a central role in how your cells make energy, and it is one of the most popular supplements for adults over 40. Here is what it does and who might consider it.
What CoQ10 does
Inside each cell, small structures called mitochondria turn food into ATP, your body’s energy currency. CoQ10 is a key part of that process. It is most concentrated in organs with high energy needs, like the heart, liver and kidneys.* CoQ10 also acts as an antioxidant, helping protect cells from oxidative stress.*
Why levels drop
Your body makes its own CoQ10, and you get small amounts from meat, fish and nuts. Production naturally declines as you age. Statin medications, which lower cholesterol, also lower the body’s CoQ10, because they block part of the same pathway the body uses to make it.
What the research shows
Heart health
CoQ10 has been studied for heart health for decades.* The research is promising in several areas, but CoQ10 is not a replacement for any medication or treatment your doctor prescribes.
Statin users
Because statins lower CoQ10, many people taking them try it for the muscle aches some people experience on statins. A 2018 meta-analysis found CoQ10 improved statin-associated muscle symptoms, though other reviews have reached mixed conclusions.* If you take a statin, keep taking it as prescribed and ask your doctor whether CoQ10 makes sense for you.
Energy
Because of its role in cellular energy, CoQ10 is popular with people who want to support normal energy levels as they age.*
How to take it
- Take it with a meal. CoQ10 is fat-soluble and is absorbed better with dietary fat.
- Consistency matters. Most studies ran for several weeks to months.
- Some people find it mildly energizing, so morning or midday may suit you better than bedtime.
Who should be careful
- CoQ10 may reduce the effect of warfarin. If you take a blood thinner, talk to your doctor first.
- It may lower blood pressure or blood sugar slightly, so check with your doctor if you take medication for either.
- If you are pregnant or nursing, or are having chemotherapy, ask your doctor before starting.
Upward Nutrition CoQ10
Our CoQ10 is one easy capsule a day to support cellular energy production and heart health.* It is made in the USA in an FDA-registered, GMP-certified facility and third-party tested for quality and purity.
References
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Coenzyme Q10.
- Qu H, et al. Effects of coenzyme Q10 on statin-induced myopathy: an updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Am Heart Assoc. 2018;7(19):e009835.
- Hernández-Camacho JD, et al. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation in aging and disease. Front Physiol. 2018;9:44.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, have a medical condition or take medication.
