CoQ10 Supplements: Benefits, Side Effects, and Where to Buy

Have you heard of CoQ10? Found throughout the body, but particularly concentrated in the heart, kidneys, pancreas, and liver, CoQ10 (coenzyme 10) is a powerful antioxidant and an essential part of generating cellular energy.

However, as we age, our bodies produce less and less CoQ10. While we still receive some from our diets (mostly meat, nuts, and fish), it’s not enough to fully sustain our needs. For many people, CoQ10 supplements can help bridge the gap. 

What is CoQ10?

CoQ10 is an essential compound that can be found in almost every cell in the human body. Responsible for assisting with many critical functions, its two most important roles include assisting in the generation of cellular energy, in the form of the antioxidant adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and countering oxidative stress. It is also responsible for helping the body convert food into energy. 

CoQ10 Benefits

Supports Heart Health

CoQ10 is at its highest concentrations in the heart. Because of its importance in generating cellular energy, it should come as no surprise that CoQ10 is especially necessary in heart tissue. Several studies indicate that CoQ10 levels can affect heart health. In fact, three out of four patients with heart disease have low levels of CoQ10 and CoQ10 concentration tends to decline in proportion to disease severity. 

Lowers cholesterol

Research suggests that CoQ10 may help lower high levels of unhealthy LDL cholesterol, particularly in individuals with diabetes. While more research may be needed, there’s a strong indication that CoQ10 is deeply involved in more than one key metabolic process.   

Supports fertility 

As we age, not only do CoQ10 levels fall, but our ability to produce healthy reproductive cells drops due to accumulated damage from oxidative stress. CoQ10 supplements help support both the generation of healthy egg cells and healthy, active sperm. 

Maintains healthy skin 

Over time, aging, as well as exposure to the sun, and hormonal changes can affect skin health. CoQ10 levels can help support healthy skin by reducing the damage caused by aging and sunlight.

Reduce migraines

Research indicates that poor mitochondrial function may contribute to migraine headaches. Supplementing CoQ10 can help balance out mitochondrial dysfunction and may have a beneficial effect on migraines. Across six studies, CoQ10 supplements have demonstrated the capacity to reduce the severity, frequency, and duration of migraine headaches.

Improve exercise performance 

CoQ10 supplements have been shown to combat fatigue, drive cellular energy production, and reduce oxidative stress, allowing for better stamina and muscular energy. It also helps reduce post-exercise inflammation. 

CoQ10 Supplement Side Effects

Common side effects for CoQ10 supplements include: 

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Rashes
• Itchiness
• Irritability

While CoQ10 supplements are generally considered safe when taken as directed, they may not be for everyone. Please consult your doctor before adding a new supplement to your routine. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking blood-thinners, you may be at increased risk of serious side effects. 

FAQ: 

What foods are high in CoQ10?

Foods high in CoQ10 include: 

–Meats (pork, beef, chicken) 

–Organs (heart, liver, kidney)

–Fish (herring, mackerel, sardines)

–Legumes (soybeans, lentils, peanuts)

–Nuts and seeds (sesame seeds, pistachios)’

Best CoQ10 Supplement? 

Our favorite CoQ10 supplement is Standard Process B Vitality with CoQ10. Not only does it contain 80 mg of CoQ10, it’s packed with all 8 B Vitamins, and an additional antioxidant blend of adaptogens like American ginseng and Cordyceps sinensis mushrooms.     

Standard Process B Vitality with CoQ10 Ingredients

Each Serving Size (3 Capsules) contains: Calories 10, Total Carbohydrate 1 g, Thiamin 0.2 mg, Riboflavin 0.3 mg, Niacin 3 mg, Vitamin B6 0.3 mg, Folate (30 mcg folic acid) 50 mcg DFE, Vitamin B12 0.5 mcg, Biotin 10 mcg, Pantothenic Acid 1 mg, Sodium 15 mg , Coenzyme Q10 80 mg. Proprietary Blend 1,250 mg:

Multi-fruit seed powder [black raspberry seed, blackberry seed, red grape seed, cranberry seed, and red raspberry seed], ribonucleic acid, organic cordyceps mushroom powder, American ginseng (root), and bromelain. Other Ingredients: Organic quinoa sprouts, cellulose, water, and calcium stearate.

Standard Process B Vitality with CoQ10 Dosage

Suggested Use:
Three capsules per day, or as directed.

Warnings:
Not to be used if pregnant or nursing unless otherwise directed by your health care professional. Keep out of reach of children.

Where to buy CoQ10 supplements? 

We sell CoQ10 supplements in our online shop.