CoQ10 Antioxident Benefits, Risks and Cautions

CoQ10 antioxidant

CoQ10, or ubiquinone, is an antioxidant that is involved in the electron transport chain and participates in aerobic cellular respiration, generating energy in the form of ATP. It is necessary for the basic functioning of cells and decreases with age. It may be low in some chronic disease states, such as cardiac conditions, diabetes, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and muscular dystrophies. Some medications inhibit CoQ10 antioxidant function, including Beta-blockers, blood pressure-lowering medications, and statins. Statins are used to lower cholesterol and can decrease serum CoQ10 levels by up to 40%!

Benefits of CoQ10 Antioxidant

Protects against macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s disease, and migraines.
Decreases blood pressure (by up to 17mm Hg systolic and 10mm Hg diastolic) and angina.
May improve exercise tolerance, asthma symptoms, chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms, and exercise performance.

Who might consider using CoQ10?

Anyone who would like the benefits noted above.

Potential side effects of CoQ10 Antioxidant

There have been few serious reported side effects with CoQ10 usage. It may slightly lower blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol. But these things are good!