Coenzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like substance that was first discovered in 1957 at the University of Wisconsin. Q10 is both produced by the body itself and absorbed through food. Nevertheless, some manufacturers offer dietary supplements, creams and lotions with extra portions of coenzyme Q10. However, experts describe these extra portions as useless. What is the effect of coenzyme Q10? Are there any side effects? How does a deficiency of Q10 occur?
Occurrence and effect of coenzyme Q10.
The human body converts relatively large amounts of coenzyme Q10 every day. However, since it also produces the coenzyme itself, a deficiency is rather rare. In addition, the substance is also absorbed through food – corn, sardines, soy, nuts, meat, poultry and some vegetable oils are particularly rich in the coenzyme.
In the body, Q10 is used as a component of the mitochondria, where inhaled oxygen is consumed and energy is extracted from food. This coenzyme also plays an important role in defending against oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals. Therefore, Q10 is said to have a skin-tightening and health-promoting effect.
Coenzyme Q10: deficiency and areas of application.
A deficiency of coenzyme Q10 occurs rather rarely in a normal diet. However, the content of the coenzyme in the organs occasionally decreases with age. This can lead to hypertension, heart muscle disorders, heart failure, and arteriosclerosis.
However, it has not yet been clearly proven whether additional administration of Q10 can help here. However, initial studies suggest that Q10 could be used to lower high blood pressure and prevent migraines.
Studies on the effects of coenzyme Q10
In 2013, researchers from Copenhagen also found success in treating patients with heart failure (cardiac insufficiency). In their study, the mortality rate of severely ill patients was almost halved by the administration of Q10. Nevertheless, those affected should not take the coenzyme without first consulting their doctor because of possible interactions with other medications.
Other studies, however, refute the presumed effect of Q10. For example, a New York study from 2014 investigated whether coenzyme Q10 in high doses can slow down Parkinson’s disease in its early stages. However, the study concluded that Parkinson’s was not slowed down by the radical scavengers, and may even be accelerated.
Side effects of coenzyme Q10
When taking coenzyme Q10 capsules, it is important to pay attention to the side effects. There are no concerns when adhering to the regular daily dose of ten to a maximum of 30 milligrams daily. However, at higher dosages, the following side effects of Q10 may occur:
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Skin rash
- Dizziness
In addition, patients taking anticoagulant medications should avoid Q10 as a dietary supplement.
Capsules and cream with coenzyme Q10.
Anti-aging creams and body lotions containing Q10 are said to tighten the skin and give it a more youthful appearance. In addition, coenzyme Q10 is often offered as a dietary supplement in capsule form. The manufacturers of Q10 preparations advertise with “health-promoting effects” and “strengthening of the immune system“.
With regard to the last two statements, however, the effect of Q10 preparations was refuted as early as 2001 by the German Federal Institute for Consumer Health Protection and Veterinary Medicine (bgvv). An in-depth investigation came to the conclusion that taking the dietary supplements was not harmful to health, but also “no significant positive effects on the function of the human body could be demonstrated.”
In a study of anti-aging creams, Stiftung Warentest also certified that the products had only “microscopic success.” So even if the effect of coenzyme Q10 continues to be researched, instead of relying on the chemical preparations, consumers would be better off paying attention to a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet in order to feel healthy and young for a long time.
