CoQ10 – a nutrient packed full of health benefits
You may have heard a lot about coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) but not know much about its benefits. CoQ10 is a naturally occurring antioxidant produced by the body, which helps convert food into energy.
This super-antioxidant plays an important role in our overall health—but particularly in matters of the heart.
CoQ10 levels could be low if you're on statins
As we age, our body produces less CoQ10. Levels could also be low if we’re taking medications like statins (to reduce elevated cholesterol levels). CoQ10 is perhaps best known as a heart-helping supplement, but researchers are uncovering other potential health benefits.
Migraines
Migraines can often be incapacitating—sometimes lasting for days—for those who experience them. They often involve a severe, throbbing headache accompanied by sensitivity to light, loss of balance, and/or vomiting. They also affect women twice as often as men.
Recent research shows that supplementing with CoQ10 could help migraine sufferers by reducing inflammation.
Skin Ageing
CoQ10 has shown its versatility in skin care by not only aiding regeneration of skin cells, but also by evening the skin tone and reducing the colour density of age spots. It is found in lots of skin products from moisturisers to face serums and facial oils. A favourite of mine is Trilogy Age-Proof CoQ10 Booster Oil which really rejuvenates the skin and smooths out fine lines.
Dental Care
Early-stage gum disease is known as gingivitis and if left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis (serious inflammation of the gums). This affects the tissues that hold your teeth in place, and if it gets worse, it can lead to tooth loss.
CoQ10 acts an antioxidant reducing the inflammatory reaction to harmful bacteria. Many natural toothpaste brands like Aloe Dent have CoQ10 added in as an ingredient in their toothpastes and also, it is found in natural mouth wash products.
There is a huge link between gum disease and heart health and it is very important to have good dental habits to keep your heart happy.
Supplements
CoQ10 is normally available as a capsule and can be found in varying strengths from 30mg up to 150mg.
A favourite brand of mine is One Nutrition Q10-Max which has a formula containing 30 capsules of 150mg of CoQ10. They have just launched an oral spray which is highly absorbable and contains 50g of CoQ10 per 6 sprays. This is ideal for anyone who may suffer with digestive issues and will now have the option of taking it sub lingually (under the tongue) for optimum absorption.
Many people don't realise that there is a huge link between gum disease and heart health