Introduction About Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a potent antioxidant that also helps in producing energy in the body.

Although the human body is capable of producing CoQ10, its levels deplete with age. Further, people with heart problems, diabetes, and Parkinson’s disease usually have lower levels of CoQ10. 

Taking CoQ10 supplements is the best way to replenish your stock naturally. CoQ10 supplements have little to no side effects and can make a great difference to your health. Some good food sources of CoQ10 are whole grains, oily fish, and organ meats like the beef liver.

How Statins Can Deplete Your CoQ10 Levels?

Statins are prescription drugs that are designed to lower a person’s high cholesterol levels. Although statins are highly effective drugs, they come with several uncomfortable side effects. In addition to nausea, diarrhea, and muscle pain, statins also cause the CoQ10 levels in the body to decline.

How CoQ10 Supplements Can Benefit Statin Users?

The CoQ10 supplements can help you increase CoQ10 levels in case you have a deficiency. It also helps reduce the side effects of statin.

Muscle Pain

Research published in the American Journal of Cardiology stated that people taking statins appeared to show a decrease in muscle breakdown, pain, and discomfort after using CoQ10 supplements. 

Heart Health

CoQ10 supplements can be used as a natural aid to lower cholesterol levels in the body, thereby, improving heart health. 

Some studies have examined the relationship between the use of CoQ10 supplements and a person’s heart health. A study published in Circulation: Heart Failure indicated that people who experienced heart failure and consumed CoQ10 supplements, underwent fewer complications and symptoms than those who took a placebo. One more research published in Atherosclerosis implied that CoQ10 supplements could enhance the blood vessels’ health in people, who might or might not have heart disease. 

What Are The Side Effects Of CoQ10 Supplements? 

CoQ10 side effects are mild to minimal. The Food Safety and Standards Authority Of India (FSSAI) recommends a minimum of 100 mg and a maximum of 1000 mg of CoQ10 per day

The most common side effect is stomach upset. CoQ10 supplements have also shown the possibility of lowering blood sugar levels. This means that people having diabetes should either avoid taking the CoQ10 supplement or at least keep monitoring their blood sugar levels closely while taking it.

CoQ10 supplements are said to interact with some other medications taken by people like antidepressants, beta-blockers, and chemotherapy drugs. You should inform your doctor in case you take both statin and CoQ10 supplements. It is best to inform and seek advice from your doctor before taking coenzyme Q10 supplements.

Conclusion

CoQ10 is a potent antioxidant that helps reduce the side effects of statins. If your CoQ10 levels are diminished due to the intake of statins, supplements are a great way to restock your body. In addition to being a good antioxidant CoQ10 also helps relieve muscle pain and enhance your heart health. Make sure that you discuss this with your doctor before starting on CoQ10 or any other supplement.