Health Benefits of Coenzyme Q-10 (Co Q-10)   by Dane Cramer

in Health / Supplements and Vitamins    (submitted 2009-04-15)

What is Co Q10

Co Q10 is an oil-soluble vitamin-like substance that plays a role in the body's production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the basic energy component of the human cell. It was first discovered in 1957, since then it has been supplemented as an antioxidant (a role in the neutralizing of harmful free radicals in cells) but has also been studied for a variety of health conditions.

Co Q10 for Headaches

Supplementation of coenzyme q10 has been found to have a beneficial effect on the condition of some sufferers of migraine headaches. So far, three studies have been done, of which two were small, did not have a placebo group, were not randomized, and were open-label, and one was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, which found statistically significant, results despite its small sample size of 42 patients. Dosages were 150 to 300 mg/day.

Co Q10 for Heart Disease

There is some clinical evidence that supplementation with co q10 is beneficial treatment of patients with congestive heart failure. However, The American College of Cardiology recently published an expert consensus document concluding that the value of co q10 in cardiovascular disease has not been clearly established. The Mayo clinic says that there is not enough scientific evidence to recommend for or against the use of co q10 in patients with coronary heart disease.

Co Q10 for Cancer

It is also being investigated as a treatment for cancer, and as relief from cancer treatment side-effects. Another recent study shows a survival benefit after cardiac arrest if co q10 is administered in addition to commencing active cooling (to 32-34 degrees Celsius). There are several reports concerning the effect of co q10 on blood pressure in human studies.

Co Q10 for Metabolic Disorders

Supplementation of co q10 is a treatment for some of the very rare and serious mitochondrial disorders and other metabolic disorders, where patients are not capable of producing enough co q10 because of their disorder. Co q10 is then prescribed by a physician.

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About the Author

I’m interested in doing research and writing articles on nutritional supplements. You view all of my lenses and find great deals on supplements please visit http://www.squidoo.com/lensmasters/danecramer