CoQ10 and Ubiquinol
Posted by Diana A. on
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant that is found naturally in your body. Specifically it is concentrated in each of your body’s cells.
In addition to being a strong antioxidant, CoQ10 helps maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, promotes arterial health, and supports a strong heart. It also has proven health benefits for your gums, brain, and skin. And studies suggest that it may help prevent headaches and slows down hearing loss.
It is know that our body’s ability to produce CoQ10 decline with age. Fortunately, you can replenish these levels by taking supplements of CoQ10. While we all can benefit from taking CoQ10 supplements, it is especially important for people with cardiovascular concerns, and for those who take cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, which further deplete your body’s CoQ10.
While CoQ10 comes in tablets and capsules, the best form to take CoQ10 for maximum absorption is a gel cap, which contains the CoQ10 mixed with a little oil.
There are two forms of CoQ10: ubiquinone (commonly sold as CoQ10) and ubiquinol (commonly sold as Ubiquinol). Almost all the CoQ10 that naturally exists in your body is ubiquinol. So, if you take a supplement containing the ubiquinol form, your body can use it right away. Conversely, if you take ubiquinone, your body will need to convert it to ubiquinol, and the conversion may not be as efficient. That is why ubiquinol is the best choice.
Generally, most people benefit from taking 100–200 mg of CoQ10 daily. But your health care practitioner may change this dose if conditions warrant. Please consult with your health care provider before taking CoQ10.
Both products are made by Kaneka Nutrients a Leading United States Manufacturer. The product is featured in the Healthy Origins Line of Supplements. Kaneka Q10® is the brand name of the ubiquinone ingredient found in many Coenzyme Q10 products and has been taken as a supplement by millions of people over the past thirty years. Ubiquinone is the form of CoQ10 most recognized by consumers. Ubiquinol is the active and more absorbable form of CoQ10, but is not as well known because it wasn’t available in supplements until 2006 when Kaneka Nutrients introduced Kaneka QH Ubiquinol®.
Ubiquinone, one of the most powerful known lipid-soluble antioxidants, is produced naturally within the body. Its importance in cellular energy production is well established. Ubiquinol is the reduced, active antioxidant form of CoQ10. It also plays an essential but different role in the cellular energy production process.
Both ubiquinone and ubiquinol are critical to the cellular ATP (energy) production cycle. Without the presence of both ubiquinone and ubiquinol within the body’s cells, cellular energy cannot be generated or sustained.
Until recently, the only way to increase ubiquinol levels in plasma was to convert it from ubiquinone within the body, which research has shown becomes increasingly difficult with age. It took scientists and researchers more than a decade to stabilize ubiquinol for use in supplements because it was so easily oxidized outside of the body.
Ubiquinone (CoQ10) will continue to be an important supplement for those who want to maintain good health in their 20s and 30s. Ubiquinol, however, will be of particular importance for those 40 and older, or with hindered ability to convert CoQ10.
Disclaimer
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The products referenced are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or weight loss.