Coenzyme Q10

Nutrient, antioxidant and vitamin-like compound Coenzyme Q 10 occurs naturally in the body. CoQ10 is present in all cells of our body. The highest amount of Coenzyme Q10 is present in mitochondria, the part of the cell where energy is produced. Cells use CoQ10 to produce energy the body needs for cell growth and maintenance. CoQ10 acts as an anti-oxidant, protects the body from damage caused by harmful molecules. It plays a critical role in the formation of ATP, the fundamental energy unit. CoQ10 plays a part in maintaining the proper pH of lysosomes, digestive component of cells.

Importance of Coenzyme Q10

Deficiency or lower levels of CoQ10 levels may result in low energy levels, physical and mental fatigue, chronic pain (frequent headaches, migraines, jaw pain or muscle and joint aches), gum disease, diabetes, increased risk of developing Fibromyalgia, a weak immune system, increased risk of heart disease and obesity and neurological disorders. Coenzyme Q10 helps in optimum functioning of the body as it has a role in producing ATP, a crucial chemical in human metabolism because the cells use it as a direct source of energy.

CoQ10 improves the effectiveness of exercise as it increases oxygen utilization and stimulates fat metabolism. Combining Coenzyme Q10 with regular aerobic exercise significantly improves fat release and thus assists in weight loss. For a healthy young skin, cells should continue energy production and extend the antioxidant power. Taking Coenzyme Q10 rejuvenates the cell's efficiency. The antioxidant property of Coenzyme Q10 acts against oxidative damage. It aids to get rid of dead skin cells and also help in the regeneration of the skin.

Coenzyme Q10 helps in fighting gum disease. Coenzyme Q10 helps maintain heart health. Intake of Coenzyme Q10 helps in normalizing blood pressure. Coenzyme Q10 ensures brain-cell energy production. The antioxidant property prevents damage from oxidative stress, an impact of aging. So, degenerative neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's, muscular dystrophy, Huntington's and Parkinson's disease are prevented. Also, as an antioxidant coenzyme Q10 protect DNA from oxidative damage, an early sign of cancerous growth.

Antioxidant

The cells of our body need oxygen for metabolism. But when there are excessive oxygen molecules and other free radicals that are formed due to other cellular reactions, they cause infinite damage to the body. These unstable oxygen molecules are referred to as free radicals and they are cited as an important cause for most chronic diseases. These free radicals are highly reactive chemical substances that travel throughout the body. We are also exposed to free radicals in the atmosphere in the form of cigarette smoke and pollution.

Free radicals are known to cause cells to mutate and die. They may have a role to play in the development of cancer cells. Atheriosclerosis is attributed in some part to free radicals that attack blood fats. Free radicals may have a damaging effect on sperm thereby causing infertility and birth defects. They may also be involved in ulcers and other digestive tract disorders, liver damage and reduced resistance to infection and disease. Rheumatoid arthritis and asthma have also been linked to increased free radicals within the body. The process of aging is said to be a result of free radical damage in the body. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun also increases the free-radical load.

Antioxidants work as scavengers of free radicals. When your body has insufficient antioxidants, it can lead to significant damage and disease. Boosting your body's defense mechanism with adequate amounts of natural antioxidants and antioxidant supplements can boost body resilience and reduce chances of disease. Antioxidants can aid in controlling high blood pressure. Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Phytochemicals, Green tea and beta carotene are some well-known antioxidants.

Vitamin E

This is an antioxidant that helps to prevent cells from damage especially the red blood cells. Deficiency of Vitamin E can result in abnormal fat deposits, vision problems, tingling and pain in the arms and legs. It can also result in enlarged prostate and fertility problems. Lack of vitamin E over time can lead to kidney and liver problems. Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils such as corn oil, wheat germ oil and safflower oil, green leafy vegetables, avocados, wheat, and whole grains.