Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10 is a compound naturally produced by the body that is involved in energy production. As we age, our bodies produce less CoQ10, so it is necessary to get enough of this vital nutrient through supplementation or foods such as meats, fatty fish (like trout) and nuts (pistachios are a good option).
Research has shown that supplementing with CoQ10 may help with a number of age-related disease conditions. You’ll find it in both its oxidized (ubiquinone) and reduced (ubiquinol) form. While both are effective, some experts believe that ubiquinol is more readily absorbed by the body and is able to exert its antioxidant effects more quickly.
Here are a few of the anti-aging benefits of CoQ10.
It May Improve Heart Health
Age is a well-known risk factor for heart disease. The number of deaths associated with heart failure is on the rise around the world and is a considered a global public health issue.
A meta-analysis published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition of 13 randomized controlled clinical trials to assess the effect of CoQ10 supplementation in patients with congestive heart failure found that those study participants who took CoQ10 had improved heart health when compared to those who took a placebo.
The daily dose of CoQ10 in the various studies analyzed was between 60–300 milligrams daily.
CoQ10 may make some blood-thinning medications less effective, so it’s best to discuss taking this supplement with your doctor who can also recommend a starting dose.
It May Help Keep Wrinkles at Bay
The largest organ in the body, our skin is exposed to a number of environmental factors—UV rays and pollution to name a few. Without protection, this can result in visible signs of aging in the form of lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity. In addition to wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen, a topical CoQ10 supplement could be beneficial to the skin.
In fact, one study found that topically applied CoQ10 exerted antioxidant effects by reducing free radical damage caused by sun exposure. Another study found a reduction in the depth of eye area wrinkles after CoQ10 was applied once daily for six months.
We recommend:
NOW Foods Solutions CoQ10 Antioxidant Serum: Apply morning and evening to clean skin before moisturizing.
Jarrow Formulas Ubiquinol QH-absorb 100 mg Softgels: Take once daily with food, or as directed by your doctor.