Co-enzyme Q10 is the pro-aging supplement with ambitious future endeavors

Friday, June 03, 2011 by: Paula Rothstein
Tags: CoQ10, antioxidant, health news

(NewsTarget) Little more than 50 years ago, a remarkable discovery was made by the Madison Enzyme Institute. Coenzyme Q10 ("CoQ10") was first identified with its chemical structure officially reported in 1958. This super antioxidant has since been the subject of numerous studies, and for the most part has exceeded the highest expectations. It is now the darling of supplements, occupying many shelves across the United States. In fact, at this time there are only two supplements sold in greater frequency: multi-vitamins and fish oil. Part of its success is most likely due to a savvy, aging population bent on taking advantage of natural health products best known for their pro-aging components. Not only does CoQ10 fit today's immediate needs of improved metabolic function, cell protection, and improved cardiovascular health, but all signs also point to greater future ambitions in the area of neurology.

Getting to know CoQ10

CoQ10 is as complicated as its name would imply. Even though it has been the subject of thousands of research studies, we are still in the infatuation stage with a full blown love affair potentially looming on the horizon. Much is known about this enzyme, which functions as an antioxidant, and much remains as well-founded speculation.

This critical enzyme is appropriately named ubiquinone for its ubiquitous distribution throughout the body. Its ubiquitous nature is also the reason it can affect several different systems of the body in equal profundity, including a demonstrated ability to pass through the blood brain barrier. Nearly every cell needs this critical substance. Yet the most important function of CoQ10 is that it ignites the manufacture of adenosine triphosphate ("ATP"). ATP is an essential fuel involved in the part of a cell called the mitochondrial. To get a sense of CoQ10's importance, you need to understand that ninety-five percent of the human body's energy is generated in the form of ATP. The greatest benefits of CoQ10 can be seen in organs requiring the highest amount of energy, such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Best way to take CoQ10

You cannot make a proper impact without the right delivery system, which is why it is so important to take CoQ10 in the best possible form. CoQ10 can be found in the body in three stages: fully oxidized (ubiquinone); partially oxidized (semiquinone); and fully reduced (ubiquinol). If you are taking CoQ10 in the form of ubiquinone, your body must first reduce the compound to ubiquinol. Once the body has converted it into this usable form, only then is CoQ10 a nutrient capable of powering your cellular metabolism. Unfortunately, much of its worth is exhausted during the conversion process. Also, as we age it becomes increasingly difficult for the body to perform the task of conversion. In the past, CoQ10 supplements came primarily in the form of ubiquinone. Today, however, CoQ10 is readily available in its converted form. Be certain the label on your supplement lists ubiquinol as its source.

Because CoQ10 is an oil soluble, vitamin-like substance, absorption will be best achieved if taken with a meal containing some healthy fats. Also, earlier consumption with, say, breakfast or lunch, will help alleviate any stimulating effect which could negatively influence sleep.

The excitement generated by CoQ10 will only continue to grow exponentially as new discoveries are made in the coming years. The greatest impact may yet be seen in the area of neurology with the belief that it can influence mental acuity, as well as diseases of the nervous system. Based on what we know already, if you are over the age of 50, you will want to consider the pro-aging benefits of CoQ10.

Sources:

http://www.nutrientreference.com/CoQ10.html
http://www.nutritionhorizon.com/news/CoQ10-p...
http://www.ehow.com/about_5522580_foods-coq....

About the author

Paula Rothstein is a freelance writer and certified holistic health coach active in the area of natural health and health freedom advocacy. As a graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, she has gained insight into the political nature of food, the failings of a drug-dependent healthcare system, and the uniqueness of individual health. For more information, please visit: http://www.medicinefreeliving.com.