CoQ10 Benefits Explained by a PhD: Your Path to Better Energy & Heart Health

CoenzymeQ10: The Missing Link for Heart Health and Energy

Coenzyme Q10—known commonly as CoQ10 and often referred to as the “spark plug” for our cells–  is a vital molecule that plays a central role in cellular energy production.

It’s so important, that we make it in every cell of our body. (More on that later. Spoiler alert: We don’t make it very efficiently as we get older.)

When I say CoQ10 is the “energy molecule”, I’m not kidding. CoQ10 is necessary for creating adenosine triphosphate (ATP)—the energy “currency” that powers nearly every cellular function in the body and is needed for every single action you take, from sleeping to running a marathon, from blinking your eyes to dancing the macarena (7,11).

Without sufficient CoQ10, our cells struggle to generate the energy they need, especially in high-demand organs like the heart, brain, and muscles, where energy requirements are particularly high (7). Not surprisingly, CoQ10 is especially concentrated in energy-demanding organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys (12).

And speaking of the heart, in the 1970s Japanese researchers pioneered studies on CoQ10 because they recognized its benefits in treating heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions. It was approved as a prescription medication for congestive heart failure in Japan, where it’s still used in this context today. Japan remains one of the few countries where CoQ10 is prescribed as a medication rather than just marketed as a dietary supplement, underscoring its established role in cardiovascular treatment there.

Moreover, individuals taking statin medications to manage cholesterol may experience even greater CoQ10 depletion (4). Statins work by inhibiting the mevalonate pathway, which is essential not only for cholesterol production but also for CoQ10 synthesis. This interference can result in lowered CoQ10 levels, potentially leading to muscle pain and fatigue—two of the most common statin side-effects. Depleted CoQ10 can even, in some cases, lead to  compromised heart function (4, 8).

This decline in CoQ10 can lead to a range of issues, from decreased stamina and vitality to a heightened risk of cardiovascular and neurological conditions (27). Certain lifestyle factors, like poor diet, stress, and environmental exposures, can also contribute to lower CoQ10 levels, accelerating the aging process at the cellular level (25).

CoQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant. And as we age, our natural levels of CoQ10 decline, reducing the body’s capacity to produce energy and defend against oxidative damage (13). And to make matters worse, certain common medications, such as statins, further deplete these levels, making supplementation beneficial for many people (5, 19).

Oh, and by the way: It is nearly impossible to get optimal amounts of CoQ10 from food. The most CoQ10 rich foods in the world are organ meats, which few people eat regularly, and which only contain a couple milligrams per portion anyway.

For all these reasons, CoQ10 supplementation, especially in a highly absorbable form like UbiQsome®, can help counteract the negative effects of depleted CoQ10, restore energy levels and muscle function (16), and—most important of all—be beneficial in supporting cellular energy, heart health, and overall vitality as we age (19).

Why CoQ10 Matters

Research has shown that CoQ10’s role extends way beyond energy production. Its powerful antioxidant properties—briefly mentioned earlier—means that it helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals—rogue oxygen molecules that run wild in our body wreaking cellular havoc—  are a mighty contributor to aging and the to the development of nearly every chronic disease you can think of (3). Studies suggest that by neutralizing free radicals, CoQ10 can support cardiovascular health, enhance exercise performance, and improve brain health—all crucial for maintaining quality of life as we age (16, 27).

Earlier, we mentioned statins, which may indeed be necessary for some patients, but what must be understood is this: Statins reduce cholesterol by inhibiting the mevalonate pathway, which is also responsible for CoQ10 synthesis. So sure, your body makes less cholesterol—which may or may not turn out to be as important as we once thought—but meanwhile, you’re also making less CoQ10, and you can’t afford to make any less of that than you already do.

So for those taking statins, CoQ10 supplementation is particularly important. Compromised CoQ10 levels can sometimes lead to muscle pain, fatigue, and even compromised heart function (4, 8).

Supplementing with CoQ10, especially in a highly absorbable form like UbiQsome®, supports muscle health, protects cellular energy production, and enhances overall cardiovascular function—making it a critical consideration for anyone relying on statins for heart health (16, 20, 30).

CoQ10, Aging, and Energy 

As we grow older, our body’s production of CoQ10 naturally slows down, leading to a gradual decline in cellular energy (2, 12). (You may have noticed this!) This reduction in CoQ10 can be particularly noticeable in energy-intensive organs like the heart and muscles, where it plays a key role in maintaining vitality, endurance, and overall function (1, 8).

The decrease in CoQ10 levels is not only associated with lower energy but also contributes to oxidative stress—that’s the damage from free radicals we talked about earlier, a process that accelerates cellular aging and may increase the risk of chronic diseases (13, 25). CoQ10 protects cells from oxidative damage, which can accumulate over time and contribute to age-related conditions like cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders (3, 21, 26)

For those looking to counteract the effects of aging, CoQ10 supplementation offers a proactive approach to enhancing energy, protecting cells, and supporting long-term health. Whether you’re aiming to maintain stamina, support heart health, or guard against the impact of oxidative stress, CoQ10 provides a unique combination of benefits that make it an essential addition to a healthy aging regimen (10, 13, 23).

Ubiquinone vs. Ubiquinol:

Understanding the Different Forms of CoQ10 (and Why it Matters)

CoQ10 Supplement Benefits | BrainMD CoQ10 supplements are available in two primary forms: ubiquinone and ubiquinol. These two forms of CoQ10 are essentially different stages of the same molecule—ubiquinone is the oxidized form, while ubiquinol is the reduced, “active” form (7, 17).

Each has unique characteristics, and choosing the right form can impact how well CoQ10 is absorbed and utilized in the body.

Ubiquinone, the more common form, has been used in the majority of CoQ10 research studies. It is well-established for supporting cellular energy and has a long track record of safety and efficacy (17, 13).

When taken as a supplement, ubiquinone is converted into ubiquinol within the body to perform its antioxidant functions. However, because ubiquinone is less readily absorbed, especially in older adults or individuals with specific health conditions, some people may not experience its full benefits (1, 15).

Ubiquinol, on the other hand, is promoted as a more bioavailable form due to its pre-reduced state, meaning it is already in the form the body needs to exert antioxidant effects (7, 16). This enhanced absorption can be beneficial for older adults or those with compromised CoQ10 levels, allowing them to achieve higher plasma levels of CoQ10 more quickly. However, ubiquinol tends to be more expensive, and some experts debate whether its higher cost is justified, given that both forms ultimately provide similar benefits in the body (14, 17).

In choosing between ubiquinone and ubiquinol, individual needs, health conditions, and cost considerations often play a role. For many people, either form can be effective, as both support cellular energy production and antioxidant defense (7, 17).

BrainMD’s Optimized CoQ10 harnesses the advanced UbiQsome® form, designed with cutting-edge Phytosome® technology to maximize absorption and deliver CoQ10 efficiently to cells, regardless of the form (16, 18).

CoQ10 Supplement Ingredient Chart Comparison | BrainMD

Benefits of CoQ10: Backed by Research

CoQ10’s range of benefits is supported by extensive research, particularly in areas like heart health, energy production, cellular protection, and support for individuals on statin therapy. Here’s how CoQ10 can support vitality and well-being:

 1. Heart Health

CoQ10 is particularly important for heart function, as the heart requires a substantial amount of energy to pump blood efficiently. CoQ10 helps maintain energy levels in heart cells and has been linked to improved outcomes in individuals with heart conditions. Research shows that CoQ10 supplementation can help enhance cardiac function, improve symptoms in those with heart failure, and support overall cardiovascular health by reducing oxidative damage to heart tissues (3, 8, 20).

 2. Energy and Stamina

As a core component of ATP production, CoQ10 plays a critical role in sustaining cellular energy, especially in high-demand organs such as the heart, brain, and muscles. Studies have shown that CoQ10 supplementation can improve exercise capacity, reduce fatigue, and boost stamina, making it popular among active individuals and athletes (9, 12, 24). By supporting mitochondrial function, CoQ10 helps cells generate the energy they need to perform at their best, which is especially beneficial as natural levels decline with age (2, 18, 22).

 3. Anti-Aging and Cellular Health

CoQ10’s antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress, which is linked to cellular aging and damage. By neutralizing free radicals, CoQ10 protects cells from damage that can lead to premature aging and the development of chronic diseases. Supplementing with CoQ10 can aid in cellular repair and maintenance, contributing to healthy skin, longevity, and overall resilience against age-related decline (10, 21, 23).

 4. Support for Statin Users

Studies show that supplementing with CoQ10 can alleviate statin-related muscle pain and fatigue. For individuals taking statins, CoQ10 is a vital addition to prevent depletion and maintain optimal heart and muscle health, allowing them to enjoy the cardiovascular benefits of statins without sacrificing energy and well-being (4, 5, 11, 27).

Best CoQ10 Supplements

Optimized CoQ10 Supplement by BrainMD

CoQ10 is an essential nutrient for energy production, heart health, and cellular resilience, and its benefits are well-documented in scientific research.

As we age, maintaining optimal CoQ10 levels becomes increasingly important, especially for those on medications like statins, which can deplete this vital nutrient (4, 5, 11).

By supporting mitochondrial function, protecting against oxidative stress, and aiding heart health, CoQ10 stands out as a powerful ally in the pursuit of longevity and well-being (1, 3, 10).

BrainMD’s Optimized CoQ10, with its advanced UbiQsome® Phytosome technology, is specially formulated to provide superior absorption and effectiveness.

Whether you’re looking to enhance daily energy, support cardiovascular health, or protect your cells from age-related decline, BrainMD’s CoQ10 offers a potent, bioavailable solution to keep you at your best (16, 18).

For anyone committed to proactive, vibrant health, CoQ10 is a natural choice. Discover how BrainMD’s Optimized CoQ10 can be a key part of your wellness journey and give your cells the support they need to thrive (17, 27).

Remember, when your cells thrive…. you thrive!

SCIENTIFIC REFERENCES

  1. Brown M, et al. “The effect of statins on CoQ10 levels.” Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 2018.
  2. Cirilli I, et al. “Role of Coenzyme Q10 in Health and Disease: An Update on the Last 10 Years (2010-2020).” Antioxidants (Basel), 2021.
  3. Cooke M, et al. “Effects of acute and 14-day coenzyme Q10 supplementation on exercise performance in both trained and untrained individuals.” J Int Soc Sports Nutr, 2008.
  4. Davis W, et al. “CoQ10 for muscle health in statin users.” American Journal of Cardiology, 2019.
  5. Fišar Z, Hroudová J. “CoQ10 and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Alzheimer’s Disease.” Antioxidants (Basel), 2024.
  6. Folkers K, et al. “A one-year bioavailability study of coenzyme Q10 with 3 months withdrawal period.” Mol Aspects Med, 1994.
  7. Green E, et al. “CoQ10 in heart failure management.” Cardiovascular Drugs and Therapy, 2017.
  8. Huang Y, et al. “Statin-related muscle pain and CoQ10.” Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 2018.
  9. Chen, Y. Liu, Z. Zhao, J. Qiu, “Oxidative stress in the skin: Impact and related protection.” Int. J. Cosmet. Sci., 2021.
  10. Jelinek M, et al. “Oxidative Stress in the Brain: Basic Concepts and Treatment Strategies in Stroke.” Antioxidants (Basel), 2021.
  11. Johnson JP, et al. “Role of CoQ10 in mitochondrial function.” Cell Metabolism, 2019.
  12. Kędziora-Kornatowska K, et al. “Effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on antioxidative enzymes in hypertensive patients.” Arch Med Sci, 2010.
  13. Lee K, et al. “CoQ10 levels and age-related decline.” Aging Cell, 2020.
  14. Liang Y, et al. “Effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on glycemic control.” eClinicalMedicine, 2022.
  15. Mantle D, Dybring A. “Bioavailability of Coenzyme Q10: An Overview.” Antioxidants (Basel), 2020.
  16. Mantle D, et al. “Coenzyme Q10 and Immune Function: An Overview.” Antioxidants (Basel), 2021.
  17. Mine Y, et al. “Stimulatory effects of collagen production induced by coenzyme Q10.” J Clin Biochem Nutr, 2022.
  18. Nguyen P, et al. “Exercise capacity and CoQ10.” Journal of Sports Medicine, 2019.
  19. Patel R, et al. “CoQ10 supplementation guidelines.” Journal of Dietary Supplements, 2021.
  20. Petrangolini G, et al. “A New Food-grade Coenzyme Q10 Formulation Improves Bioavailability.” Curr Drug Deliv, 2019.
  21. Smith T, et al. “Antioxidant properties of CoQ10.” Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, 2021.
  22. Sood B, et al. “Coenzyme Q10.” StatPearls, 2024.
  23. Tsai IC, et al. “Effectiveness of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation for Reducing Fatigue.” Front Pharmacol, 2022.
  24. White A, et al. “Ubiquinone vs. ubiquinol: A comparison of CoQ10 forms.” Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 2020.
  25. Zhang L, et al. “Anti-aging effects of CoQ10.” Journal of Gerontology, 2022.
  26. Zozina VI, et al. “Coenzyme Q10 in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases.” Curr Cardiol Rev, 2018.
  27. Žmitek K, et al. “Effect of dietary intake of coenzyme Q10 on skin parameters.” Biofactors, 2017.
  28. Mayo Clinic. Metabolic Syndrome. Available at: Mayo Clinic.
0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
TOP