Do you get tired easily? Do you always feel low energy-wise? In this fast-paced world, it is easy to get overwhelmed and burnt out. Even people who follow a good exercise routine and a balanced diet sometimes require a bit of an energy boost. And no, we are not talking about coffee!
A lot of people use coenzyme Q10 for the necessary boost. Doctors often prescribe CoQ10 supplements for their energy and antioxidant properties.
Forms Of CoQ10
CoQ10 comes in two forms - Ubiquinone (the oxidized form) and Ubiquinol (the reduced form).
CoQ10 is in the ubiquinone or oxidized form that is difficult to absorb by the human body. Because the Q10 molecules usually stick together and become large crystals, which are not digestible. The crystals form large clusters that cannot penetrate the intestinal wall and enter the bloodstream.
Hence, the human body usually converts ubiquinone into ubiquinol. It helps in better absorption and functioning of the body. Oxidation taking place in the body converts the ubiquinol back to the original ubiquinone form, and the cycle continues again.
Several studies on CoQ10 note that ubiquinol is absorbed better than ubiquinone. Even the CoQ10 derived from our dietary food sources and supplements is in the ubiquinol form.
As a person turns 25 years of age, it becomes more difficult to convert ubiquinone to ubiquinol. Therefore, CoQ10 levels decrease as we age.
How Does CoQ10 Help In Making Energy?
Coenzyme Q10 is in the cells within the membranes of the mitochondria. Mitochondria are the energy factories or powerhouses of the cells. They play an integral role in making the energy necessary for the cells to function.
The cells use CoQ10 to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP) or the energy molecule. CoQ10 converts the energy from carbohydrates into ATP. This energy is used in vital functions like maintaining good metabolism, healthy bones, nerves, and heart function.
That is why coenzyme Q10 is found in large concentrations near large organs like the brain, heart, liver, kidney, lungs, etc., as they require more energy to function better. Ubiquinol is responsible for 95% of the energy production in the body.
Apart from that, coenzyme Q10 also has strong antioxidant properties. It neutralizes the free radicals and helps prevent or reduce oxidative damage within the cells.
How CoQ10 Supplements Help In Boosting Energy
The human body naturally produces CoQ10. Apart from that, dietary sources of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, dairy products, nuts like sesame seeds and peanuts, oils like canola oil, extra virgin olive oil, soybean oil, eggs, fatty fish like sardines, and meats contribute some amount of CoQ10. Further, CoQ10 levels decrease as we age, leading to health issues like heart conditions, high blood pressure, and premature aging.
Taking CoQ10 supplements can help increase your levels naturally. It also helps to counterfeit several health issues and feels more energetic. CoQ10 also provides a more long-term energy boost when compared to caffeinated beverages that give only short-term effects.
According to a study done on athletes, CoQ10 supplements show better results in terms of energy, output, and athletic performance when compared to placebo.
CoQ10 is a natural energy booster. Taking CoQ10 supplements in the ubiquinol form helps the body absorb it right away without an additional conversion step.
People having chronic fatigue syndrome suffer from tiredness that never really goes away. CoQ10 deficiency is one of the causes of this condition. CoQ10 supplementation is the right way to see visible improvements in energy levels.
Apart from energy production and protection from oxidants or free radicals, CoQ10 supplements can help treat conditions like heart failure, diabetes, fertility issues in men and women, HIV and AIDS, and Parkinson’s Disease.
Conclusion
Energy is what keeps us going at all points in our life. Low energy levels could ruin our plans and decrease our overall productivity. Since coenzyme Q10 plays a vital role in generating energy and protecting the cells against degradation, low levels of CoQ10 could also be a reason for low energy levels.
People incorporating CoQ10 supplements in the ubiquinol form every day may see a gradual rise in their energy levels which could remain for long. It helps many people improve their fatigue and energy levels for a sustained time period rather than displaying a temporary energy spike.
According to the FDA, CoQ10 supplements are considered safe for consumption by adults above 18 years of age. While it might not have serious side effects, it might interact with other medications you consume and lead to potential risks.
Before you decide to start using CoQ10 supplements, it is best to check with your doctor or medical health practitioner, or dietitian. You can take a CoQ10 supplement after checking with your doctor and track your daily energy levels.
