CoQ10 is a quinone, a class of organic compounds that occur naturally as pigments. These are found in plants, bacteria and some fungi. The chemical structure of CoQ10 is similar to that of Vitamin K. Because the body needs CoQ10 in minute quantities for many important functions, CoQ10 is often said to be vitamin-like in its functions.

The human body manufactures its own CoQ10. Levels are highest during the first 20 years of life, and decline with age. The body can compensate through dietary sources.

CoQ10 was discovered by scientists about 50 years. Ever since it has been isolated, numerous clinical trials and studies confirm the importance of CoQ10 vitamin for health and well-being. Notably, CoQ10 is found concentrated in organs like the heart, the brain, the liver, the spleen, the pancreas, the kidneys—organs that need the most energy to perform vital functions.

CoQ10 is called Ubiquinone or Ubiquinol, derived from the word "ubiquitous". CoQ10 vitamin is ubiquitous in the body, being found in the mitochondria (cellular powerhouse) of every cell. CoQ10 aids in the conversion of nutrients (fuel) into energy called ATP, adenosine triphosphate. ATP is often referred to as the energy currency of a cell.

Where Do I get CoQ10?

The body continues to make lower levels of CoQ10 after the age of 20, and dietary sources include fish, meat and eggs. Vegetables sources include spinach, broccoli, peanuts, wheat germ and whole grains.

Since CoQ10 is fat soluble, it is therefore better absorbed by the body when it is eaten with fatty foods. The Ubiquinol form of CoQ10 may have greater absorption than Ubiquinone.

What Can CoQ10 do for me?

Countless studies suggest that CoQ10 vitamin supplements have supportive benefits for the heart and periodontal health. Recently, Japan approved the use of CoQ10 supplements for healthy heart function.

• CoQ10 supports cardiovascular health and is considered to be useful in promoting healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels already within a normal range.
• Supplementation with CoQ10 vitamin is said to support oxygen metabolism in heart tissue.
• Supplementation is also known to support the pumping capacity of the heart.
• Drugs like statin used to regulate normal cholesterol levels deplete the level of CoQ10 in the body. Those who regularly take such drugs, may benefit from supplementation with CoQ10.
• CoQ10 helps to promote healthy gums.
• CoQ10 may help support healthy immune function.
• CoQ10 also functions as an antioxidant in cell membranes.

CoQ10 Supplementation

The best choice for a CoQ10 supplement would be CoQ10 supplements that contain the Ubiquinol form of CoQ10, since this form may have greater absorption in the body. In addition, a combination of Ubiquinol with Vitamin D3 and Vitamin E can support healthy blood pressure within a normal range, moods, bone density, teeth and energy levels. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and supports cellular health.

CoQ Matrix is a combination of 50 mg of Ubiquinol combined with Vitamin D3 and Vitamin E in the form of d-alpha tocopherol, arguably the best form of Vitamin E. Regular supplementation with CoQ10 may be secondary in importance only to a daily multi-vitamin.