Mitochondria: The source of our energy (Part 3)
The Role of Coenzyme Q10 in Mitochondrial Function
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vital compound that plays a central role in mitochondrial function and cellular energy production., CoQ10 is concentrated in the mitochondria, the “powerhouses” of the cell. Its primary function is in the electron transport chain, a process needed to generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the form of energy our bodies require. CoQ10 collects hydrogen electrons from our food and transfers them to the enzyme ATP synthase which like a tiny power station generates ATP. [1]
As an antioxidant, CoQ10 protects mitochondria from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This protective role is crucial, as oxidative stress can compromise mitochondrial integrity and lead to reduced efficiency in energy production. By neutralizing harmful molecules, CoQ10 helps maintain the health and performance of mitochondria, ensuring optimal cellular function.
Moreover, CoQ10 contributes to mitochondrial biogenesis—the creation of new mitochondria—further enhancing cellular energy capabilities. Its benefits are particularly significant as the body’s natural production of CoQ10 declines with age, impacting mitochondrial efficiency. Supplementation of CoQ10 has been shown to support energy levels, improve endurance, and mitigate signs of aging.
Causes of low Co enzyme Q10.
Low levels of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) can result from several factors. Aging is a primary cause, as the body’s natural production of CoQ10 declines with age, affecting mitochondrial efficiency. This is one reason that people often feel more tired as they age. In some cases, supplementing with quality CoQ10 can help restore energy levels.
Certain health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders have been linked to reduced CoQ10 levels. There are some diseases that fatigue is a major symptom. Examples are Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Post Viral Syndrome and the autoimmune disease Polymyalgia Rheumatica.
Statins; a common energy thief
The use of statin cholesterol lowering medications interfere with CoQ10 manufacture. Statins work by slowing the enzyme pathway (HMG-COA reductase) that makes cholesterol and Co enzyme Q10. The result is less CoQ10 and reduced energy. This can also be felt as poor memory, depressed mood and a general lack of motivation.
Other than the many side effects, the biggest danger of statins is that people may be drawn into a false sense of security about their chances of having heart disease. This is because the reductions in the absolute risk of heart disease while on statins is very low. [2]
MTQ10 has high grade, naturally fermented CoQ10 as part of its Mitochondrial support formula. The normal dose is 1 daily with food either after breakfast or lunch. Always take with some oil such as fish oil, or even a teaspoon of olive oil. This is to help with the absorption of CoQ10.
[1] This transfer is essential for the generation of a proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane, which drives ATP synthesis through oxidative phosphorylation.
[2] Statins reduce the absolute risk of heart disease events like death, heart attack, and stroke by a modest amount. For example, statins might reduce the risk of dying from any cause by 0.8%, heart attack by 1.3%, and stroke by 0.4%. Click here for more information
Please contact me if you need personalised advice or if you have questions.
As always, feel free to contact me for personalised advice.
John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med)
Abundant Health
john@abundant.co.nz
0800 423559
Int’l +64 7 5722343
John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423559 or email john@abundant.co.nz. Join his all new newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz.