Co-Enzyme Q10
Co-Enzyme Q10 (Co-Q-10) is aquinone derivative with a tail, the number 10 referring to the length of the tail. It is also known as ubiquinone because it is ubiquitous in biological systems.
Co-Q-10 is made within the body, but production falls, as we get older. It is an essential catalyst for energy metabolism in the mitochondria, the 'spark plugs' of living cells. It is also a powerful antioxidant that counteracts harmful free radicals in the body. CoQ- 10 is also found in foods, in particular raw meat, but cooking and pro-cessing tends to destroy it.This substance is particularly popular in Japan, where it is estimated that approximately 6 million people take a supplement daily. Although it was first discovered in 1957, the amazing benefits of co-enzyme Q10 are only now beginning to receive the level of recognition they deserve. From assisting cardiovascular health to boosting the energy levels of athletes and the elderly alike, co-enzyme Q10 is a nutrient with distinguished qualities.
The History of Co-enzyme Ql0
Co-enzyme Q10 was first discovered by Dr Fredrick Crane in 1957, who isolated the nutrient from a bull's heart. However, its unique role in the body was not recognised until 1978, when American scientist Peter Mitchell developed a theory-identifying co-enzyme Q10 as an essential element in ATP synthesis - the body's basic source of cellular energy. Mitchell won a Nobel Prize for his efforts, and since then co-enzyme QlO has been the subject of substantial interest in the scientific community.
Properties
Co-Q-lO plays a very important role at a very fundamental
biochemical level as a carrier in a process known as the 'electron
transport' chain. This process occurs with each cell and is the method by which the body produces energy.
Research
There has been extensive research done on Co-Q-10, since the
early 1960's, all over the world, particularly in Japan from the mid
seventies. It was recognised early on as an important supplement, but it couldn't be produced economically until the latter 1970's.
Food Sources
Foods highest in coenzyme Q-10 include beef, spinach, sardines,
albacore tuna, and peanuts.
Contra-indications/Precautions
There are no known drug interactions or other contra-indications
with Co-Enzyme Q-10.
The Benefits of Co-Q-l0
Cardiovascular disease: A 75% reduction in the body's Co-Q-10 level leads to the heart ceasing to function properly.
Blood pressure: It complements the action of blood pressure
reducing drugs.
Gum disease: It has been shown to restore gum health by pre-venting the progress of gum diseases such as Pyrrohea and gingivitis, and increasing the rate ofgum healing.
Weight loss: Research has shown that some overweight people have low Co-Q-10 levels.
Tissue Hypoxia: A condition leading to conditions such as stomach ulcers. Co-Q-10 has been shown to be effective against this condition.
Ageing and the ImmuneSystem: Studies with mice increased their lifespan by 50% with Co-Q-10 supplementation, and extended the youthfulness and ability to ward off infection.
Energy booster: Co-Q-10 has been shown to stimulate energy production in people feeling tired or run down.
The bad news about co-enzyme Ql0.
Unfortunately, as we get older the body's levels of co-enzyme Q10 begin to diminish, which is something scientists are yet to ex-plain. However, the implications of this on our well-being are a lot clearer - reduced energy levels and a greater risk of free radical damage. And age isn't the only factor that affects the body's levels of this key nutrient. Strenuous exercise can also deplete levels of co-enzyme Q10, which is why it's now also a popular supplement with athletes.