Coenzyme Q10 – What You Need to Know

How does Coenzyme Q10 work?

Coenzyme Q10 is a vital molecule upon which cellular functions in the body depend upon. Coenzyme Q10 works by acting as a catalyst that makes it possible for the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cell, to produce a chemical that gives the body energy and power. In fact, 95% of the energy generated by the human body in a process that depends upon Coenzyme Q10, so it’s no wonder that Coenzyme Q10 levels are highest in the heart.

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Coenzyme Q10 Deficiency

Coenzyme Q10 deficiency can lead to gum disease, heart disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and even migraines. Coenzyme Q10 deficiency is also a major contributor to fatigue, especially after the age of 30.

Am I getting enough Coenzyme Q10?

Chances are, you aren’t getting enough Coenzyme Q10 in your diet. This is because the body can’t get enough Coenzyme Q10 from diet and from what it synthesizes on its own. On top of this, environmental toxins reduce Coenzyme Q10 levels in the body. If you take medications such as beta blockers, antidepressants, diuretics, and certain diabetes medications, these can also reduce Coenzyme Q10 levels in the body.

It would take one pound of sardines, two pounds of meat, and one pound of nuts to provide 30 mg of Coenzyme Q10. The optimal dose of Coenzyme Q10 for a human is 100 mg or more per day. This means you should take a Coenzyme Q10 supplement, no matter who you are.

How to get enough Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 must be taken with a fatty and oily meal. Before you get excited – I’m not talking about a fast food burger. Half of an avocado or a teaspoon of olive oil will do the trick.

Take your Coenzyme Q10 supplement with a small amount of monosaturated fat for optimal absorption into the bloodstream. I recommend to all my patients that they take at least 100 mg of Coenzyme Q10 a day, optimally 100 to 200 mg twice a day (400 mg total). It is quite difficult, if not impossible, to take too much of this supplement.

Mark Burhenne DDS