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| 5 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Taking Coenzyme Q10 Supplements |
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant that shows promise in improving heart health, reducing migraine headaches, managing diabetes, and more. Keep reading to learn the top 5 research-backed ways CoQ10 supplements may benefit your health.
CoQ10 May Improve Heart Health by Lowering Inflammation
CoQ10 has been shown to decrease levels of C-reactive protein, an inflammatory marker that predicts heart disease risk. A 12-week study found CoQ10 supplements lowered inflammation in people with heart disease. Doses ranged from 30mg to 300mg per day, with most taking 175mg daily.
Research also shows CoQ10 may prevent heart damage from chemotherapy drugs like doxorubicin. It’s believed CoQ10’s antioxidant properties protect the heart.
CoQ10 Might Shorten Migraine Attacks and Reduce Frequency
Multiple studies reveal CoQ10 cuts migraine attack length. A review found people had shorter headaches and fewer migraines monthly with CoQ10 versus a placebo, even though migraine severity was unchanged. The dose used was 100mg daily.
CoQ10 Could Lessen Fibromyalgia Pain and Fatigue
Supplementing with CoQ10 substantially decreases fibromyalgia pain, morning tiredness, and depression. One analysis found a 200mg daily dose improved pain by 24% to 37%. Researchers believe lowering inflammation aids chronic widespread pain.
CoQ10 May Improve Erectile Dysfunction, Especially in Men With High BP
A 3-month trial in 230 men found 200mg of CoQ10 daily boosted erectile function in those with hypertension. Mild erectile dysfunction resolved in over 20% of participants. However, more severe cases showed little improvement.
CoQ10 Can Help Control Blood Sugar in Diabetes
Through its antioxidant effects, CoQ10 lowers fasting blood sugar and A1c in diabetics. A review found doses from 100mg to 900mg per day over 4 weeks to 6 months also reduced insulin resistance. Better blood sugar control may prevent complications.
Who Should Take CoQ10?
CoQ10 supplements may benefit:
- Those with heart disease or high blood pressure
- People needing protection from chemotherapy cardiotoxicity
- Individuals suffering from migraine headaches
- Those with fibromyalgia and chronic widespread pain
- Men with erectile dysfunction
- Diabetics needing better blood sugar control
How Much CoQ10 Should You Take?
100mg to 600mg daily is typically recommended, depending on your health condition:
- Heart health: 100mg to 400mg
- Neurological diseases: 600mg to 3,000mg
- Migraines: 100mg
- Fibromyalgia pain: 200mg
- Erectile dysfunction: 200mg
- Diabetes: 100mg to 900mg
Talk to your doctor to find your optimal CoQ10 dosage.
Is CoQ10 Safe? Overdose Risks and Side Effects
CoQ10 is very safe, even at high doses like 1,200mg daily. Safety over this amount is unknown. Mild side effects include insomnia, nausea, diarrhea, and headaches.
CoQ10 may also make certain medications less effective, like blood thinners, cancer drugs, and insulin. Check with your pharmacist about potential interactions.
While anyone can benefit from CoQ10, consult your doctor first if pregnant, breastfeeding, or being treated for a health condition.
Choose Your CoQ10 Supplement Wisely
As a supplement, CoQ10 is not regulated by the FDA. Seek out quality products tested by ConsumerLab, NSF International, or US Pharmacopeia. Review CoQ10 reviews online for other’s experiences.
For optimal absorption, select softgels over tablets. Compare ubiquinol versus ubiquinone forms. Ubiquinol may be better absorbed in those over 40.
The Takeaway: Who Benefits From Taking CoQ10?
Early research reveals CoQ10 benefits diverse health conditions like heart disease, migraine, diabetes, fibromyalgia, erectile dysfunction, and more. Its antioxidant properties show particular promise.
While more research is still needed, talk to your doctor about adding CoQ10 to bolster your health, especially if struggling with any of the above chronic diseases. Start slowly and give it at least 2-3 months to work. Most experience few side effects.
Have you tried adding CoQ10 supplements? What benefits did you notice? Share your experiences below!
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