A deficiency of CoQ10 (also known as Coenzyme Q10) can be the forerunner to various kinds of heart disease as well as other health conditions.
Benefits of CoQ10
CoQ10 and the Heart
CoQ10 is a naturally found in the body, and is known to be a powerful antioxidant. It is a coenzyme, similar to a vitamin, and is needed in various processes within the body. Specifically, CoQ10 has an essential role in the production of cellular energy. CoQ10 is found in high concentrations in tissues and organs that require a lot of energy such as the heart. Because of the heart's energy requirements, it is believed that a deficiency of coenzyme Q10 can lead to heart problems.
Most of the clinical studies done to date involving CoQ10 supplementation have been to evaluate its effectiveness for cardiovascular disease. It has been found that fifty to seventy percent of all cardiac patients have a CoQ10 deficiency. A six-year study done at the University of Texas had patients with congestive heart failure take CoQ10 along with their regular therapy. This resulted in a seventy percent survival rate compared with only a twenty-five percent survival rate for those who did not take the CoQ10.
CoQ10 Helps Many Health Conditions
CoQ10 has been shown to help other conditions as well, such as; gum disease, aging, Alzheimer's disease, Angina pectoris, brain function, High Blood Pressure (hypertension), immune function and memory.
CoEnzyme Q10 and Statin Medications
There is growing evidence, and a concern among many knowledgeable health professionals, that those individuals taking Statin drugs are actually at a higher risk of heart attack due to interference with CoQ10. We highly recommend you research this issue on the internet and discuss it with your doctor before making ANY changes in your medication.
