Can Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) Benefit Your Heart?

What characteristic does every cell in the human body share? They all contain substantial amounts of coenzyme Q10. Without an ample supply, our body simply can’t function at its’ best. As an active contributor to all aspects of cellular function, CoQ10 has become universally regarded as one of the most vital nutrient supplement available. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) as a powerful antioxidant, is thought to be beneficial to heart health.

It helps the body convert food to energy, and its antioxidant ability protects us from free radical damage, similar to that of vitamin E. Co–Q10 is present in the foods we eat. Rich dietary sources include almonds, ocean salmon, sardines, spinach and certain meats. Research has shown that "soft gel" versions of CoQ10 supplements work better than dry powdered versions.

It is widely accepted that CoQ10 levels decrease with age, and are low in people with chronic diseases such as heart conditions, muscular dystrophies, Parkinson's disease, cancer, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS.

Potential heart health benefits include:

Reducing blood pressure Low blood levels of CoQ10 have been found in people with hypertension.

It may reduce some of the adverse effects associated with statin therapy for treating high blood cholesterol, including reduced heart function.

Reduce angina and may improve exercise tolerance in people suffering with angina.

This antioxidant may also help in reducing lipids in coronary arteries. But at present we do not have enough scientific evidence to recommend for, or against, its use.

Preliminary studies have suggested that CoQ10 may have protective effects in patients with acute myocardial infarction if administered within 3 days of the onset of symptoms.