CoQ10 Vitamins & Mineral Information

Increased cellular energy and free radical destruction are two benefits of coenzyme Q10, a health supplement marketed for its antioxidant action. Athletes take it to improve their cellular energy stores and muscle contraction, thus boosting performance. CoQ10 is not a vitamin or mineral but a naturally occurring substance present in the body.

Free Radicals

• Free radicals are unstable molecules roaming through the bloodstream that cause trouble on a cellular level. They are suspects in Alzheimer's disease, cancer, heart disease and aging. Free radicals result from eating and intense exercise but more so from smoking, toxic compounds in the environment, ultraviolet light and other stressors. Oxidative stress is the resulting damage when free radicals react.

Antioxidant action

• Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant. It reduces or eliminates oxidative stress. Low levels of coQ10 have been noted in heart failure, high cholesterol and gum disease. Preliminary research shows coQ10 has a positive effect on many other health conditions.

How to Get It

• Oily fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines are excellent sources of coQ10. Whole grains, peanuts, beef and spinach are good sources. coQ10 is sold in oral spray, capsule and tablet form.