Let’s Talk About CoQ10
While you may already know that your body naturally produces CoQ10, you probably don’t know what it really is or does. CoQ10, the abbreviation for Coenzyme Q10, is used by our cells for growth and maintenance. Sadly, the amount that our body makes or the amount that we ingest in our daily meals isn’t enough. However, there are dietary supplements that you can take. They will help get the proper amount your body needs. Keep in mind that there isn’t a need for everyone to take a supplement for this antioxidant. However, there have been reported cases of severe deficiencies resulting in a heart attack.
Here are some benefits associated with this powerful antioxidant:
- Heart Health- the greatest benefit from it is that it can help patients with a variety of cardiac diseases. It reduces oxidative stress and promotes the widening of blood vessels. This is a key factor in blood pressure control.
- Diabetes- those that have taken it have seen reductions in blood sugar and insulin resistance. Because of this, CoQ10 may reduce diabetic neuropathy. The antioxidant works to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.
- Physical Performance- because it is involved in energy production, supplements may improve your physical performance. It decreases oxidative stress in the cells and can improve mitochondrial functions.
- Migraines- migraines are due to the inflammation of neurons and blood vessels in a part of the brain. Taking the correct amount of it can reduce inflammation. When there is an abnormality in mitochondrial function, calcium uptake increases resulting in a decrease the antioxidant protection. In such an environment, migraines may occur. That is when taking it would be beneficial.
CoQ10 is a natural element and has been shown to be safe. While it is beneficial to treat many conditions, it is also recommended to take any supplements under a doctor’s supervision. There are some side effects that include loss of appetite, diarrhea, fatigue, abdominal pain.
It’s also important to take the correct dosage for your body. According to Examine Magazine, the standard dose for it is between 90 mg for a low dose and 200 for a high dose. Many factors help determine what your dosage should be. It depends on your age, health, and the condition for which you are seeking to take CoQ10. We know that our body makes CoQ10 naturally. Therefore, you shouldn’t overdo the supplemental amount that you are taking. The dosage would increase if you were dealing with a chronic illness. Make sure to consult with your healthcare provider to make sure it’s right for you.
Knowing precisely when to take CoQ10 supplements is where it gets tricky. Since we naturally produce this antioxidant, it’s probably not something everyone should take all the time. The keyword always used is “healthy”. Most healthy people produce sufficient CoQ10 naturally. There is no evidence that will have any noticeable effect on a healthy person. However, there have been cases where someone’s body isn’t making enough CoQ10. That is when supplements should be considered.
Medshadow brings up the connection between CoQ10 and aging skin. There are studies that show that CoQ10 does help with the visible effects of aging. It is known to help with sun damaged skin and has even provide shown anti-aging effects. Abnormally low levels of antioxidants have been associated with various skin cancers.
Here at The IV Lounge, we have CoQ10 injections for our patients. Call now to hear more information. Our professional medical staff will be able to answer any question you may have. Our goal is to provide the very best care so that you can end up feeling like your best self.
Bibliography
Myers, Carrie. “Pros and Cons of taking CoQ10.” Medshadow, 2020, https://medshadow.org/pros-cons-of-taking-coq10/.
Patel, Kamal. “Coenzyme Q10 Supplement.” Examine, 14 March 2021, https://examine.com/supplements/coenzyme-q10/.