Let's start by learning a little about CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10). WHAT IS CoQ10? It is a fat soluble substance and somewhat like a vitamin in nature. It is antioxidant in nature and is key to the production of energy within a cell. It is found in such foods as peanuts, liver, soy oil and sardines. Its most important function is as a coenzyme, hence its name. CoQ10 IS A COENZYME Coenzymes help or enable other enzymes to do their jobs in the body. It helps at least three mitochondrial enzymes which produce chemicals necessary for cell function. Trust me; you don't want me to go into the entire process at this point. CoQ10 DEFICIENCIES Essentially, deficiencies occur when the body's nutritional intake is diminished, when the body's production (biosynthesis) is impaired, or when the body makes excessive use of CoQ10. It is not uncommon for two, or even all three conditions to coexist. It has been postulated by some studies that the body's nutritional intake of CoQ10 may be below recommended levels, thus putting large groups of people at risk for a deficiency, particularly those on any sort of reduced nutritional regimen, such as a diet for weight loss. Some common symptoms of a CoQ10 deficiency might be fatigue, depression, frequent colds, muscle soreness, frequent headaches, fuzzy thought processes, and recurring gum disease. CoQ10 AND WEIGHT LOSS This is a "bad news", "good news" scenario. Since CoQ10 assists in the production of energy by the cells, a deficiency may contribute to lower energy levels in an individual as well as a potential lowering of bodily metabolism. It also seems to improve the efficiency of the immune system and also increase the strength of the heart muscle. It appears to lower blood pressure, and treating several of these conditions at once would possibly help someone to enter into or sustain a weight loss program, and perhaps even enhance the results of a diet or weight loss program. However, there does not seem to be any evidence that taking CoQ10 will cause weight loss. EFFECTS OF CoQ10 As pointed out above, CoQ10 is good for the heart, may help lower blood pressure, and assists cells in producing energy. It is an antioxidant and stimulates the immune system. In some parts of the world, it is considered to be possibly part of a normal run of treatment for congestive heart failure. Tests on non-human subjects have shown an increase in life span for subjects, but this has not as yet been demonstrated in humans, although some will interpret the results as they see fit. SHOULD YOU TAKE CoQ10? The official jury appears to be out. As with many supplements, it DOES appear that there may be a deficiency of this important coenzyme due to dietary conditions, even in modern, high level civilizations, particularly for those dieting to lose weight. Even getting reasonable amounts from a normal diet may involve ingesting large quantities of calories, which could be detrimental to individuals trying to manage their weight. Therefore, if someone has doubts about their intake and production, it is an easy fix to take a supplement containing this important nutrient. |
