The U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn't believe that coenzyme Q10 pills prevent heart attacks, allergies or cancers or prolong your life or make you a better lover.

Reactions in your body produce chemicals called oxidants that damage cells and shorten life. To protect your cells from oxidant damage, your body produces antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase and coenzyme Q10. Since tissue levels of coenzyme Q10 drop with aging, it is tempting to think that reduced levels of this coenzyme cause aging. However, research shows that lowered levels are the result of aging rather than the cause because coenzyme Q10 is found in the mitochondria, the energy sources of cells. With aging, the number of mitochondria and size of cells become smaller, so everything in the mitochondria is reduced.

Furthermore, coenzyme Q10 has been found to be ineffective in treating diseases affecting the mitochondria. Since coenzyme Q10 is a source of energy, doctors thought that coenzyme Q10 supplements would increase endurance, but studies show that it does not. Years ago, a researcher at the University of Texas showed that people who have arteriosclerotic heart disease have lower blood levels of coenzyme Q10 than people who have normal hearts. People with damaged hearts have less functioning heart muscle, so they should have lower levels of coenzyme Q10.

For coenzyme Q10 to improve health and energy, it must get into the cells, particularly the mitochondria, where it functions. Studies show that coenzyme Q10 pills get into the bloodstream, but cannot be recovered in the cells. Therefore coenzyme Q10 pills cannot get into heart muscle and kidneys, so they cannot strengthen a failing heart.

For journal references on this article see report #7883 in the Nutrition section of http://www.drmirkin.com

Dr. Gabe Mirkin has been a radio talk show host for 25 years and practicing physician for more than 40 years; he is board certified in four specialties, including sports medicine. Read or listen to hundreds of his fitness and health reports at http://www.DrMirkin.com

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