In this article we have discussed the following:
- What is Coenzyme Q10?
- What are the benefits of Coenzyme Q10?
- What are the precautions?
- What are food sources for Coenzyme Q10?
- Conclusion.
Coenzyme Q10 is an important vitamin-like substance required for the proper function of many organs and chemical reactions in the body. It helps provide energy to cells. Coenzyme Q10 activates the energy cells.
Benefits:
1) Male Infertility
- Improves testosterone levels and erectile dysfunction
- Provides energy for spermatogenesis
- Increase sperm count, motility, and seminal fluid
- Protects sperms from free oxidative radical damage
- Heightens libido and sexual orientation
- Pre-mature ejaculation
2) Female Infertility
- Reduces unexplained infertility in females
- Improves age-related decline in fertility
- Preserves the ovarian follicle pool
- Improves mitochondrial functions in oocytes
- Reduces PIH (Pregnancy-induced hypertension) and Pre-eclampsia
3) Sustains natural energy, helps lower fatigue, and acts as a stamina booster.
4) Reduces free radical damage.
5) Adds in exercise benefits.
6) Anti-aging and reduces wrinkles.
7) Improves heart health and offset the effects of statin drugs.
8) Helps lower high blood pressure and prevents heart failure.
9) Reduces high cholesterol levels in the blood.
10) Prevention in migraine frequency.
11) Reduces muscular dystrophy.
Precautions: (Not exhaustive)
In pregnancy and breast-feeding:
Coenzyme Q10 is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken during pregnancy. Very little is known about the use of coenzyme Q10 during breast-feeding. So stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Children:
Coenzyme Q10 is POSSIBLY SAFE for children when taken by mouth. But should not be without medical supervision.
Chemotherapy:
People undergoing chemotherapy using a class of drugs called alkylating agents should use coenzyme Q10 with caution. Coenzyme Q10 might lower the effectiveness of these drugs.
High blood pressure or low blood pressure:
Coenzyme Q10 can multiply the effects of medications used to lower blood pressure. So health care provider’s advice is necessary.
Smoking:
Cigarette smoking depletes the amount of coenzyme Q10 stored by the body.
Surgery:
Coenzyme Q10 might interfere with blood pressure control during and after surgery. Stop using coenzyme Q10 at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Food sources of Coenzyme Q10:
- Organ meats: Heart, liver, and kidney
- Some muscle meats: Pork, beef, and chicken
- Fatty fish: Trout, herring, mackerel, and sardine
- Vegetables: Spinach, cauliflower, and broccoli
- Fruit: Oranges and strawberries
- Legumes: Soybeans, lentils, and peanuts
- Nuts and seeds: Sesame seeds and pistachios
- Oils: Soybean and canola oil
Conclusion:
Nothing can replace the proper food intake but food supplements, as one can understand by the name itself, supplement and support in fulfilling a particular deficiency in the body due to improper food intake. Many food supplements are available in the market which can fulfill the deficiency of coenzyme Q10 in the body if taken with proper care and in the recommended quantity. Always choose certified food supplements.
