Benefits of CoQ10 for Women: Insights from Scientific Research
By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 16, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 16, 2024Table of Contents
CoQ10 is known for its high antioxidant properties. It helps produce energy in our cells. Moreover, it plays a big part in keeping health issues at bay. Scientists have recently probed its possible health benefits for women.
This article aims to give you an inside look into how CoQ10 may be beneficial for women. We will discuss its role in heart health, fertility, ageing, and migraines. We will also touch upon the recommended dose, food sources, possible side effects, and other key points related to CoQ10. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions regarding this topic.
CoQ10 is a compound naturally found in our cell’s ‘power stations’, known as the mitochondria. Known for producing adenosine triphosphate (or ATP), it offers crucial energy to our cells.
CoQ10 comes in two forms which are ubiquinone and ubiquinol. Ubiquinone is the oxidized type, while ubiquinol is the reduced type. The body can flip between these two forms as needed. Both kinds are critical for maintaining good health and both act as antioxidants, shielding our cells from harmful damage.
CoQ10 helps convert nutrients into energy. It works by aiding the production of ATP. This energy production is vital to keep our cells working well, growing, and well maintained.
Studies have pointed out several potential health benefits of CoQ10 for women. These are as follows.
Various aspects of heart health may get a boost from CoQ10. It aids recovery after heart attacks, eases heart failure symptoms, and helps control blood pressure.
CoQ10 might help reduce the risk of future heart attacks and chest pain if taken soon after a heart attack. Moreover, CoQ10 may improve heart function and lessen the odds of death due to heart issues.
In those with congestive heart failure, CoQ10 may ease symptoms like swollen legs, breathing difficulty, and exercise capacity.
A few studies hint at how CoQ10 could be a tool in managing blood pressure, possibly reducing high systolic blood pressure.
It seems that CoQ10 might give female fertility a positive nudge. Increasing egg quality and boosting success rates with assisted reproductive technology (ART) are some of the potential benefits. More research is needed on this usage.
With age, women might find a decline in both the number and quality of their eggs, leading to reduced fertility. But CoQ10 plays a part in this process. Some studies suggest that adding CoQ10 into the mix might reverse declines in egg quality and quantity due to age.
Taking CoQ10 may increase success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF). It could enhance egg quality, leading to better chances of a successful pregnancy.
CoQ10’s antioxidant properties may support healthy skin ageing. Research suggests applying CoQ10 directly to the skin may cut down oxidative damage. This might help reduce visible signs of ageing such as wrinkles, while also improving skin elasticity.
Free radicals can accelerate the ageing process. But CoQ10 fights these harmful molecules, shielding skin cells from damage, and contributing to youthful skin. More research is needed to corroborate this.
Sun exposure is a major factor in skin ageing. However, applying CoQ10 to the skin may curb the damage caused by UV exposure. You may see fewer wrinkles and sunspots.
If migraines are becoming unbearable, CoQ10 may offer some respite. It may decrease the occurrences and severity of this kind of severe headache.
Documents from clinical trials suggest that using CoQ10 might cut down the occurrences of migraines in children, as well as adults.
Along with decreasing the frequency of migraines, there are also claims that CoQ10 supplementation could lessen the severity of the headaches. More research is needed to support the usage for this indication.
CoQ10 isn’t just limited to cell processes when it comes to energy production. It might also affect physical performance. By helping efficient energy production and curbing oxidative stress, CoQ10 might boost energy levels. It may also ease muscle fatigue, leading to better exercise performance.
Taking CoQ10 may boost energy production within cells, fuel your muscles, and reduce exhaustion during exercise.
CoQ10 fights off oxidative stress in the muscles. This may help avoid muscle damage and fatigue, leading to better workout performance.
Managing diabetes involves maintaining blood sugar levels and controlling risk factors for complications related to the condition. CoQ10’s potential role in improving blood sugar control and cutting down diabetes-related complications is being looked into.
Some studies suggest it to be a promising adjuvant therapy for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
CoQ10 might have a role in curbing complications linked with diabetes. Such as damage to blood vessels and nerves. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may offer protection against these. However, this area needs more research to verify these claims.
Test-tube studies show CoQ10’s ability to block cancer cell growth. This has led researchers to look into its potential benefit in cancer. Although the nature of this link isn’t completely clear, some proof suggests low CoQ10 levels might increase the risk of specific cancers. For example, breast, prostate, and lung cancer.
Test-tube studies display CoQ10’s potential to slow down the growth and spreading of cancer cells. But we need more research to find out if this effect can work in humans too.
CoQ10 supplementation might promote the death of cancer cells. This process, called apoptosis, is a programmed cell death pathway. This could have implications for lowering cancer risk, but more research is needed.
CoQ10’s antioxidant properties may affect brain health. Some studies suggest CoQ10 might help stop age-related cognitive decline and lower the risks of brain diseases that get worse over time.
As we age, our levels of CoQ10 fall. This makes us less able to fight off oxidative stress, which can lead to cognitive decline. By reducing oxidative damage in the brain, CoQ10 might help protect against this age-related decline.
Malfunctioning mitochondria are linked to diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s to be specific. By supporting mitochondrial function and combating oxidative stress, CoQ10 could possibly slow down the progression of these conditions. But more research is required.
Well, oxidative stress can lead to respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD. Turns out, CoQ10 may help ease this oxidative stress and support better breathing function.
By batting away harmful free radicals, CoQ10 might help ease inflammation in the lungs. This might offer relief to individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD. More research is required regarding this health benefit.
Research suggests that when paired with traditional treatments, CoQ10 may aid in the management of heart failure. Low levels of CoQ10 are also possible in those with congestive heart failure, a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood as effectively as it should. In my opinion, CoQ10 by itself should never be used to treat heart failure; instead, consult your doctor before taking supplements.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D
The right dose is always a key factor when starting any supplement, including CoQ10. The suggested daily intake of CoQ10 will differ based on aspects like age, general health, and the specific medical condition.
Typically, a daily CoQ10 dose ranges from 60 mg to 500 mg. However, some clinical trials have used doses as high as 1,200 mg. Remember, you should always seek medical advice before incorporating supplements into your daily life.
Also Read: Foods for Vaginal Health: Science-Backed Dietary Recommendations
CoQ10 dosage can vary from person to person. This variation depends on factors like age, overall health, and any existing medical conditions. It’s therefore vital to discuss your individual needs and any probable contraindications with a healthcare professional.
In my experience, supplementing with CoQ10 may help control hypertension in diabetics and enhance heart health and blood sugar levels. CoQ10 is believed to enhance blood sugar regulation, according to preliminary investigations. Other studies, however, find no impact. Consult a certified nutritionist or your physician before taking CoQ10 if you have diabetes.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
CoQ10 is found in several foods naturally. However, the amounts found in dietary sources may not be adequate to significantly affect CoQ10 body levels. Even so, some foods may provide moderate amounts of CoQ10 to help overall health.
Meat, fish, and organs (like liver, kidney, and heart) are the richest animal-based sources of CoQ10. For instance, you can find CoQ10 in beef, pork, chicken, salmon, mackerel, and sardines.
Certain plant-based foods contain CoQ10 too. Although, their amounts are less than animal-based sources. Some plant-based CoQ10 sources include soybeans, lentils, peanuts, sesame seeds, pistachios, and canola oil.
A typical issue that results in gum swelling, bleeding, pain, and redness is gum disease. According to clinical research, gum disease patients typically have low levels of CoQ10. Taking CoQ10 supplements might speed up tissue repair and recovery. However, you need to discuss this with your doctor before taking it.
Dr. Smita barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.
Before starting a CoQ10 supplement regimen, it’s always prudent to discuss any likely risks and interactions with a healthcare professional. While generally safe, CoQ10 supplementation may cause some small side effects mentioned below.
Some people might experience mild side effects from taking CoQ10. These side effects can include tummy troubles such as upper belly pain, loss of appetite, throwing up, or loose stool. Other likely side effects can include headaches, dizziness, being unable to sleep, itchy skin, rashes, and being annoyed or upset.
CoQ10 could mess with certain medications, including blood thinners like warfarin, and some types of cancer chemotherapies. So, it’s essential to consult a medical professional before taking CoQ10 if you’re on any medications or have any pre-existing health issues.
As there isn’t enough research on CoQ10 safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding, avoid CoQ10 during these times.
Numerous clinical studies indicate that CoQ10 supplements may assist lower leg oedema, lessen lung fluid, which facilitates breathing, and improve an individual’s ability to exercise while suffering from heart failure. Talk to your doctor before using this supplement.
Dr. Anuja Bodhare, B.A.M.S, M.D
CoQ10 is an antioxidant that offers several possible health benefits for women. These benefits include support in heart health, and fertility, slowing down skin aging, and more. While generally safe to use, always remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. This consultation ensures that you are informed of any possible side effects or interactions with medications.
Putting good food on your plate and staying active are important parts of leading a healthy life. As science keeps delving deep into the potential benefits of CoQ10 supplementation, we eagerly anticipate learning more about this amazing nutrient and how it may impact women’s health.
CoQ10 may offer several possible health benefits for women. It supports improved heart health, better fertility, healthy skin ageing, relief from migraines, and even more. But remember, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting on any new supplement regimen.
Taking CoQ10 daily may support heart health, boost fertility, slow skin ageing, and lessen the occurrence and severity of migraines. However, ensure you’re taking it under the guidance of a healthcare professional in the right dosage.
On starting CoQ10, you may see improvements in heart health, and fertility, slowing down skin ageing, and migraine relief. However, it’s vital to use it as directed by a healthcare professional and adhere to the suggested dosage guidelines.
CoQ10 offers potential health support for women including heart health improvement, a boost in fertility, support for healthy skin ageing, relief from migraines, and more. These benefits are still being studied and the full impact of CoQ10 on women’s health is yet to be fully uncovered.
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