Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin- like substance that is found is small amounts in a wide variety of foods and synthesized in all tissues. Organ meats, beef, soy oil, sardines, mackerel and peanuts are best food sources. One pound of sardines = 30mg CoQ10.

It is made in the body from another amino acid called tyrosine- it requires about 8 vitamins and minerals for the process. CoQ10 is the coenzyme for enzymes that are absolutely essential for the production of a high- energy compound called ATP that are needed for all cellular function. The heart because it needs a continuous supply of oxygen requires the highest levels of ATP support. CoQ10 is purported to have a role in prevention and remediation of multiple disease processes and may also help to slow the aging process.

Sometimes the biosynthesis process in the body might be faulty and the ability to synthesize CoQ10 is insufficient to meet needs. This is liable to happen with age, but might also happen when there is excess need because of excessive use in times of stress, or just not enough of the wide array of nutrients needed synthesize it.

CoQ10 is most extensively studied in heart disease e.g. cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease) and congestive heart failure. CoQ10 also protects against oxidation of LDLs (the bad cholesterol that gets even more atherogenic with oxidative stress). HMGCoA reductase inhibitors may decrease level of CoQ10. CoQ10 levels are often lower in hyperlidemic patients than in healthy controls. Smoking and hypertension lower CoQ10 levels.

In CHF doses as small as 30-45 mgs/day were associated with measurable clinical responses. CoQ10 is fat-soluble and absorption is improved significantly when consumed with a fat containing meal. Some patients have taken 100 mgs/day with no adverse effects. There are no known drug interactions with CoQ10.

Although I have chosen to focus on heart disease and CoQ10, it is my sense that comparable science will emerge on this nutrient- like substance in connection with other diseases. Anecdotal information, which often precedes the science abounds at this time.

Donna Tinnerello, MS, RD, CD/N Updated June 2000

Donna Tinnerello MS, RD,, CD/N is registered dietitian with more than 10 years experience in HIV and nutrition. She works in lower Manhattan at Cabrini Medical Center, the community and in private practice. Her subspecialties are cardiovascular, renal, gastrointestinal disease, diabetes and weight loss. Donna is available for private consultation by referral only.