CoQ10 is a biological compound found naturally in the mitochondria of the body’s cells. Each cell in the body may have thousands of mitochondria, which are regarded as the energetic “powerhouse” of the cell. The mitochondria govern the cell’s productivity and energetic output. CoQ10 is a fat-soluble, naturally occurring nutrient that boosts the action of the mitochondria within the body’s cells.
How CoQ10 works
Protein is an essential building-block for the repair and construction of the body’s cells. A compound called ATP (adenosine triphosphate) forms an essential part of the conversion of dietary protein into a form of protein that can be readily used by the body. CoQ10 works by boosting the production of ATP. Why is this so important for the body’s functioning? ATP is closely linked to the energetic output of the body’s organs. For example, the heart and brain need lots of this compound, because their energetic output is so high. The brain orchestrates all of the signals and transmissions that allow our bodies to function, enabling us to exist in the world. The heart is responsible for circulating blood-nutrients and oxygen around the body, and for maintaining its pumping strength. The cells of the heart and brain produce large amounts of ATP, which is devoured on a continual basis, because these vital organs are never at rest.
Why do we need to take CoQ10 as a supplement?
CoQ10 is readily available to the body through oily fish such as salmon and tuna, and offal or organ meat such as liver and brain. It is also plentiful in whole grains. For the average person with no illnesses or conditions, the amount that we consume through a healthy diet is enough. For many people who do not consume a healthy diet, their CoQ10 levels can fall, leading to the diseases of lethargy and malaise that are becoming common in Western cultures. It is taken as a supplement to slow the effects of aging; to boost heart productivity where the person suffers with heart disease; to strengthen the immune system in immunodeficiency diseases; to boost athletic performance; to improve memory, motor and cognitive function in degenerative brain diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
How to take CoQ10
CoQ10 is best taken with food, as it can cause stomach upset. It is a very large molecule that is not absorbed into the bloodstream easily. Some manufacturers thin it with aggressive solvents such as propylene glycol. Be careful with these brands, as this chemical can cause toxicity in people who already suffer with degenerative brain disease. Look for brands that are blended with vitamin E and a product named on pharmaceutical information as Microcell.
CoQ10 does not readily cross the blood-brain barrier (the network of cells that safeguard against toxic substances reaching the brain), so again, look for a reputable brand that has a good proven absorption rate, is safe even in higher doses, boosts mitochondrial activity, and crosses the blood-brain barrier. Products are available in easy to swallow gel capsules, tablets, and oral spray.
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