Coenzyme Q10: Energy on Call

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a key ingredient in my cardiovascular nutrition program and I simply would not practice cardiology without it.

Often called the “miracle nutrient” or the “universal antioxidant,” CoQ10 exists in the mitochondria—or power plants—of our cells, and scavenges and destroys free radicals that cause heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. Hundreds of studies have documented the actions of CoQ10 and most doctors and holistic health practitioners are in awe of its effectiveness. So am I!

Although CoQ10 is produced naturally in the body, production wanes dramatically with age and in the presence of specific diseases and heart risk factors. Medications can also interfere with CoQ10 production. This slowdown can significantly affect how you feel, as being low on CoQ10 is like running on weak batteries. Unfortunately, many people write off this feeling as a sign of getting old. They never realize that the real cause of the problem is a CoQ10 deficiency.

Dietary sources of CoQ10 include beef heart, pork, chicken liver, and fish (especially salmon, mackerel, and sardines). But the average person gets only 2–5 mg of CoQ10 a day from diet. Therefore I’m a firm believer in taking a CoQ10 supplement. Recommended dose: Take at least 100–300 mg of CoQ10 daily if you have any form of heart disease (the most serious cases may require even more). If your response to the initial dose is less than optimal, work with your physician to increase the dosage and maintain it over time. For best results take CoQ10 in divided doses with your meals. It’s more readily absorbed with food (especially some fat).

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