CoQ10

Benefit:  CoQ10 is an antioxidant that the body naturally produces.  The body needs CoQ10 to maintain optimal cellular functioning- particularly in the mitochondria for energy production.   Levels of CoQ10 diminish with age.  People on statins can become depleted.   CoQ10 has been shown to improve symptoms in some forms of heart failure-diastolic dysfunction.  It has also been shown in some studies to prevent the frequency of migraine headaches  and lower LDL cholesterol modestly.  

Quality:  The products below have been evaluated by independent labs with no financial ties to the company’s products and have been shown to be safe and contain the declared amount of CoQ10 on their labels. 

How much should you take?  The recommendation for cardiac patients and those taking statins is 200-300 mg daily.  For migraine prevention:  100 mg three times/day. 

Safety:  CoQ10 from a reliable manufacturer as those listed below have been shown to be safe.  Mild digestive problems such as diarrhea, nausea and loss of appetite have been reported but appear to occur sparingly.   If you are on warfarin, monitor levels with your physician.  CoQ10 safety in breastfeeding has not been established.