CoQ10 is the short form of CoEnzyme Q10, an enzyme that is also known as ubiquinone, whose main function is to activate other enzymes in your body. Insufficient production or dysfunction of enzymes often affects the health of your heart. One of the chief functions of ubiquinone is the production of cellular energy. Cellular energy is very vital for the functioning of the heart. The deficiency of coenzyme Q10 may thus lead to fatal heart problems including heart failure.
The synthesis of ubiquinone enzyme occurs naturally in your body, and genetic factors can impair the synthesis of CoEnzyme Q 10 leading to deficiency. Therefore, it is important to keep your CoEnzyme Q 10 levels sufficient by taking the most appropriate supplements.
Ubiquinone has been used to cure a wide range of diseases. This enzyme has been used for ages to help with the treatment of cardiac conditions such as:
- High cholesterol levels
- Angina
- Cardiomyopathy
- Congested heart failure
- Hypertension
Its ability to prevent the development of atherosclerosis has helped prevent major imbalances in blood cholesterol. Hardening of arteries impairs the functioning of the heart since it interferes with the pumping of blood. Oxidation of LDL cholesterol is the chief cause of thickened arteries, a problem associated with insufficient amount of CoQ 10. High levels of LDL cholesterol also increase the risk of developing hypertension, stroke and other lifestyle diseases especially diabetes. Therefore, ubiquinone is essential for a healthy body.
Poultry, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts and dairy products are rich sources of ubiquinone. However, foods only supply you with a maximum of 5 mg of this enzyme, while the daily recommended amount is 30-60 mg. In addition, the synthesis of this enzyme by the human body goes down as you grow older. People above the age of 25 years are also advised to take CoQ 10 supplements in order to stay healthy.