What is Ubiquinone?

Ubiquinone is a coenzyme that is produced naturally in the human body, and is found in each of the body's cells. Also known as Coenzyme Q10, unbiquinone is vital to healthy cell function. Q10 is also a powerful antioxidant, which rids the body of toxins and destroys disease-causing free radicals.

While ubiquinone is found naturally in the human body, levels may begin to decrease with age or due to chronic illness or other conditions. Without the proper levels of Q10, cellular function begins to decline, and the body is at an increased risk for attack by toxins and free radicals. To combat decreasing levels of Q10, ubiquinone is often used in supplement form.

Ubiquinone vs. Ubiquino

Coenzyme Q10 supplements are manufactured in two forms: uniquinone and ubiquinol. In the past, the only form available was ubiquinone; however, ubiquinol supplements have become increasingly available in recent years, and many individuals are unsure of the difference between the two. 

First of all, when taken in supplement form, ubiquinone is converted by the body to ubiquinol. Since ubiquinol is the the purest form of Coenzyme Q10, it requires less energy during the metabolic process. For some individuals, such as the elderly or those with chronic illness, ubiquinol is often preferred to ubiquinone. Ubiquinol has also proven more effective in protecting heart health and increasing longevity than ubiquinone. To experience the individual benefits of ubiquinol and ubiquinone, many individuals take both forms as part of a vitamin/supplement regimen.

How are Q10 Supplements Used

Coenzyme Q10 supplements are often administered in the treatment of the following illnesses:

  • Alzheimer's Disease
    • Studies show that Q10 supplements may slow the progression of dementia in Alzheimer's patients.
  • HIV and AIDS
    • Coenzyme Q10 may strengthen immunity in individuals diagnosed with HIV or AIDS.
  • High Blood Pressure
    • Research shows that ubiquinone and ubiquinol supplements may lead to decreased blood pressure in hypertension patients.
  • Congestive Heart Failure
    • Although controversial, there is evidence to suggest that Q10 supplements may be helpful as a complimentary treatment in patients with heart failure.
  • Angina
    • Preliminary studies show that Q10 supplements may reduce the occurrence and intensity of chest pain in some individuals.
  • Parkinson's Disease
    • When taken during the early stages of Parkinson's, Q10 supplements may slow the progression if this debilitating disease.
  • The Prevention of Migraine Headaches
    • Studies have shown that Q10 supplements can reduce both frequency and intensity of migraine headaches.
  • Muscular Dystrophy
    • Ubiquinol and ubiquinone supplements have been shown to increase physical performance in MD patients.

In addition to illnesses and deficiencies, Q10 supplements are often taken by healthy individuals in order to improve and protect health, as well as to increase energy and longevity. Due to the antioxidant properties of Q10, ubiquinol and ubiquinone supplements could decrease an individual's risk of developing a variety of illnesses and diseases, as well as slow the aging process. Q10 is also sometimes taken to speed recovery after intense aerobic or anaerobic exercise. In short, Q10 supplements can lead to better health, appearance and overall well-being, as well as decreased risk for cancer and other diseases.

Are Q10 Supplements Right for Me?

Individuals with chronic conditions or those taking medications should speak with a doctor before taking ubiquinine, ubiquinol or other supplements. For those in good health, a daily supplement can be used as a preventative measure against declining levels of Coenzyme10, as well as for improved energy and quality of life. Visit ubiquinol.org for more information on the benefits of essential Coenzyme Q10.

Thanks for reading this article on the benefits of Q10. For more information be sure to check out what is ubiquinone?