October 9, 2009, Newsletter Issue #188: Enzyme Supplement CoQ10 May Reduce Heart Disease Risk

Tip of the Week

Co-enzyme Q10, commonly known as CoQ10, is a molecular compound that occurs naturally in the body. CoQ10 plays a role in healthy cell function and provides an essential spark in the production of energy. Lower–than-average levels have been reported in patients with chronic diseases including heart disease, diabetes, cancer and Parkinson’s disease. In addition, low levels of CoQ10 have been noted in people who take cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins).

Some evidence suggests that taking CoQ10 as a supplement will raise CoQ10 levels up again. CoQ10 may have some preventive properties as well—a dose of 30 milligrams may promote general health, and 60 milligrams might cut down on your risk for heart disease if you have a family history. If you have heart disease, manufacturers of products such as Lindberg CoQ10 suggest doses of 100 milligrams or higher to help increase CoQ10 and prevent the disease from getting worse. Those with Parkinson’s take as much as 1,200 mg a day.

CoQ10 has been studied and used as a treatment or preventive strategy in patients with a range of health conditions including high blood pressure, Alzheimer’s disease and heart damage due to chemotherapy. Of these, high blood pressure has good scientific evidence to support its use. Since statin drugs can lower one’s CoQ10 levels and result in congestive heart failure, adding CoQ10 to your supplement program may be a good idea if you’re taking a statin drug.

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