Saturday, January 24, 2009

CoQ, do we really need it?

Why is there so much hype about the importance of CoQ or CoenzymeQ (a.k.a. CoQ10, ubiquinone)? Do we really need it?

Well, CoQ is a naturally occurring substance that is found in our membranes especially the membranes of the ER (see Nov 21, 23), peroxisomes (see Nov 15), lysosomes (see Nov 19), and vesicles (see Jan 11). It is most abundant in the cristae of our mitochondria (see Jan 1-5) as it functions as one of the electron acceptors during energy production.

Because it can accept and transfer electrons, CoQ can therefore act as antioxidant too. Thus, it is usually recommended as a dietary supplement especially in adults and individuals with diminished energy-producing capacity.

There is thus a biological basis for all the hype about this substance. However, its role in preventing heart failure still has to undergo more tests.

Since CoQ is fat soluble, it is best taken during meals that contain oil and fat.

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