CoEnzyme-Q10 - it's more than for the heart!
Co-Q10 30 (stock # 4089-6) Co-Q10 75 (Stock # 1895-5) Co-Q10 Plus (Stock # 1796-4)
In this day and age of diseases with unknown origins to super-bugs that seem to be resistant to everything that modern medicine has to throw at them, it is imperative to look outside the western medicine box. There is a vast array of alternative therapies that are truly impacting disease processes where they start, the cellular level.
Given the fact that the human body is a collection of systems that work together with the one common thread being that of the basic cellular structure, the ability of the cell to get the necessary energy and nutrients is essential to proper human functioning.
Energy in the cell is produced from ATP via the mitochondria of the cell, also called the cell's engine. It might be interesting to note that although ATP serves as the energy current for all cells, its quantity is limited. In fact, only about three ounces of ATP are stored in the body at one time! This is an important fact because it shows that the body must continually manufacture energy so the cells can function in a proper manner. In order to make this energy, the body must have the necessary essential nutrients to do so. CoQ-10 plays the critical role in the pumping of protons across the mitochondrial membrane (1).
Coenzyme defined...
CoQ-10 is a compound found naturally in the human body and is present in all body cells (2). Umbiquione, another name for coenzyme Q-10, was formed from the word ubiquitous because the enzyme was found in all cells in the body (3). A coenzyme is defined as "...A necessary non-protein component of an enzyme, usually a vitamin or a mineral (4)." The most common of the coenzymes are those of the B Vitamin family. In addition, according to Dr. Roland Stocker, CoQ10 is the only lipid-soluble antioxidant that is synthesized in our bodies (5).
When might CoQ-10 supplementation be necessary?
When supplementation with CoQ-10 is discussed, the first thing that comes to mind is usually the beneficial effects it has on the heart. While there is a vast amount of research available on the cardiac benefits dating back as early as the 1860's, mounting evidence for use with other disease processes is coming to light.
The cells in the body that appear to be the most susceptible to CoQ-10 deficiency "... appears to be greatest in cells that are the most metabolically active (such as those in the heart, brain, immune system, gingiva, and gastric mucosa), since these cells presumably have the highest requirements for CoQ-10 (6).
In theory, one could assume that CoQ-10 supplementation might be needed due to "...nutritional deficiencies; a genetic or acquired defect in CoQ-10 synthesis or utilization; increased tissue needs resulting from a particular illness [and] the requirement to prevent the side effects of medical intervention (7)." Even though the medical problems associated with a lack of CoQ-10 could be very serious, the positive side is that when treated with an adequate amount of this coenzyme, the disease process is usually improved significantly if not fixed completely.
Is there a test for CoQ-10 levels?
Yes, there is a test that assesses the activity of the enzyme called succinate dehydrogenase-CoQ-10. Although the test can be done, it is said to be quite expensive and done at only select labs. It is written that scientists are trying to develop a more standardized, less expensive test so that it can be done as a general screening tool.
Clinical Applications
Striking results have been reported in many patients with advanced CVD, cancer and infectious diseases simply by oral supplementation of Q-10(8). There are a vast array of disease processes in which the use of CoQ-10 has been studied clinically which include: Parkinson Disease, AIDS/ARC, Cancer, Aging, Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease), Immune Function, Gastric Ulcers, Asthma, Physical Performance, Migrane Headaches, Reproductive Problems, Skin Protection, Strokes and most extensively cardiovascular diseases. Given that CoQ-10 plays a role in the function of all cells of the body, supplementing with CoQ-10 could indeed promote improved cellular function. Improved function on the cellular level, in addition to modification of diet and lifestyle, could thwart these disease processes once and for all.
Parkinson Disease / Neurodegenerative Disorders:
Due to the large amount of free radical production in this disease, "... reduced levels of CoQ-10 have been demonstrated in the platelets of individuals with PD...(9)." Interestingly though, "...A recent study suggests that a dose of 1200 mg/day was substantially more effective at slowing PD progression than 300 or 600mg/day cases, indicating adequate plasma levels may need to be reached before a chemical effect is observed (10)." It is written that a patient is more likely to see positive results if the CoQ-10 supplementation is "...initiated early in the course of the disease (11)." It is important to remind these clients to be patient and not expect immediate results.
There are also research studies which discuss the positive effects of CoQ-10 usage to protect the brain from diseases and strokes/TIA's (transient ischemic attacks). In an abstract published in the journal of Orthomolecular Medicine, exceptional stroke recovery success stories are cited following the use of C0Q-10. One case used 400mg of CoQ-10 twice/day beginning four days after the stroke and the patient recovered to a better level than she was before the stroke. Other such success stories are cited as well.
It is important to "...realize that each year in the U.S. alone, over 650,000 families have a loved one hospitalized for stroke (12)." With statistics like these, be ready to share the beneficial effects of CoQ-10 on these types of clients and their families. In addition to the use of CoQ-10, one might also benefit from the addition of RG-Max and Nattozimes to their natural health regimen.
Immune Function
The supplementation of CoQ-10 has been shown to enhance the immune system. According to the Natural Med Text (3rd ed.), at the cellular level, more specifically the mitochondria, CoQ-10 is essential for an optimum functioning immune system.
"In a study of eight chronically ill patients, administration of 60mg/day of CoQ-10 was associated with significant increases in serum levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) after 27 to 98 days of treatment. These studies suggest that CoQ-10 may help to prevent or reverse the immunosuppression that is associated with aging or chronic disease (13)." Another study measured the levels of IgG and, with a dosage of 60 mg/day, found an increase as well. This increase could represent a correction of the immunodeficiency or an increase in immunocompetence (14). Given the fact that immune function seems to decrease with age, one could conclude that the CoQ-10 level in an individual would decrease as well.
Aging
Each year thousands of medical doctors meet at the Anti-Aging convention from all over the world. One might wonder their feelings if they were told the answer to aging might be contained in a capsule. Wow, what a concept. There is a great deal of information available that the supplementation of CoQ-10 in the aging population might indeed be the fountain of youth! In order to live a longer, more productive life, nutritional intervention might be the answer. It is important to understand the average American diet will do little to extend life on its own.
In humans, coenzyme Q10 serves the following purposes that may be connected to the aging process: Increases energy and exercise tolerance;corrects age-related declines in the immune system which can leave the body prey to bacterial and viral infections; has considerable healing effect on age-related periodontal disease(15) as well as assisting the body in getting rid of free radicals.
Cardiovascular Diseases
The use of Co-Q10 with cardiovascular diseases is well known. If optimum nutrition is supplied at the cellular level, which means diet, vitamins, minerals, as well as coenzyme Q10, it appears that degeneration may be delayed or forstalled and that the mechanical action of the heart may be improved (16).
There are a variety of these types if diseases which have been studied and the beneficial effects of this supplement are documented. It is written that the use of 100mg/day for twelve weeks assisted a patient with cardiomyopathy by decreasing the shortness of breath and increasing the cardiac muscle strength.
Another study worked with eight children who had mitral valve prolapse. They were given 2mg per kg of body weight while a control group was given a placebo and at the end the children who had received the CoQ10 had improved while the control group had stayed the same.
Other cardiovascular improvements were noted in studies with hypertension (60 mg/day); cardiomyopathy; congestive heart failure; and angina (150 mg/day). The remarkable safety of Coenzyme Q10 and the almost total lack of toxicity at the dosages prescribed appear to suggest that it might possible replace conventional therapy and become treatment of choice for mild congestive heart failure (17). But, interestingly enough, the FDA does not recognize it as anything but a food supplement.
Gum Disease/Periodontal Disease
There is a great deal of information available that suggests the relationship between healthy gums and a healthy heart. It is interesting to note that when someone has gum disease, research shows that they are more than likely deficient in CoQ10. The frequency of a deficiency ranged from 60 percent to 96 percent, however, studies have shown that 86 percent of the patients also had low levels of coenzyme Q-10 in white blood cells, indicating the presence of a systemic imbalance (18). In one study, coenzyme Q10 produced postsurgical healing that was two to three times faster than usual in seven patients suffering from advanced periodontal disease. Coenzyme Q10 may act by improving the energy-dependent processes of healing and tissue repair (19).
Last week we discussed the beneficial effects of xylitol on the teeth and now CoQ-10 for gum health have you ever thought of discussing NSP products with your dentist? Sounds like a good idea another outlet to promote health as well as increase your NSP business.
The Candida Connection
When discussing CoQ10 supplementation, it is important to assess if there is an underlying candida infection. If there is, this infection must be treated so that the full benefit of the CoQ10 supplementation can be derived. This might be done with Dr. Jack's Caprylic Acid Combination (1808-2) and NSP's Yeast/Fungal Detox (508-9) in addition to the necessary changes in diet, lifestyle, and nutritional supplementation.
NSP's CoQ-10 Products
NSP discusses that the BENEFITS of supplementations with Co-Q10 include: supporting energy production; promoting healthy cardiovascular function; exhibiting antioxidant and neuroprotective properties; promoting the regeneration of vitamin E another heart-healthy antioxidant; as well as supporting normal blood pressure levels.
NSP provides three different CoQ-10 products to choose from:
Co-Q10 30 (Stock # 4089-6) contains 30 mg of Co-Q10 per capsule, along with zinc (10 mg), copper (1.3 mg), magnesium (100 mg), capsicum fruit, hawthorn berries and a concentrated gingko extract.
Co-Q10 Plus (Stock # 1796-4) is a unique product containing 10 mg of coenzyme Q10 in combination with the minerals iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper. These minerals are organically chelated to the amino acids leucine, histidine and glycine for better absorption. In addition, they are combined in a base of capsicum fruit and hawthorn berries.
Co-Q10 75 (Stock # 1895-5) has an oil-base delivery system, which improves bioavailability (about three times as bio-available as Co-Q10 in the powdered form. These capsules contain 75 mg Co-Q10 with each easy-to-swallow soft-gel. Lecithin and beta-carotene are added to support membrane fluidity and antioxidant activity respectively. In addition, this product also contains rice bran oil and beeswax.
Why NSP?
NSP provides a phenomenal quality assurance department which, under the direction of Vice President Lynda Hammons, ensures that the products truly contain that in which is on the label. In addition, NSP goes to great lengths to provide the best product available on the market today.
Each of the NSP CoQ-10 products provides their own amazing formulation. It is important to look at the desired synergistic effect before deciding which product would be the most beneficial. It is imperative to look beyond the price in determining which product would be best.
Co-Q10 30 and Co-Q10 Plus are both made from the highest possible quality powered form of CoQ-10 according to Lynda Hammons, Vice President of Quality Assurance from NSP. For those clients who desire to supplement with high doses, the Co-Q10 75 is probably their best bet as it is the most concentrated with the highest potency.
Recommended Dosages
The beneficial range of CoQ-10 supplementation varies from person to person and according to the desired results due to the disease process which is targeted. It is important to remember that if the level of coenzyme Q-10 is normal, the addition of supplemental coenzyme Q-10 will usually have little or no effect (20). But, it is imperative to remember that because the synthesis of new coenzyme Q-10 dependant enzymes is a slow process, response should not be expected until at least eight weeks after supplementation is started (21).
Possible Drug/Supplement Interaction:
Persons on Warfarin (Coumadin) should consult their physician before taking this supplement. Co-Q10 has chemical similarities with vitamin K and may interfere with responsiveness to Warfarin treatment.
Complimentary Products
Some complimentary products might include RG-Max, Nattozimes, GlycoEssentials and Cellular Build just to name a few!
It is obvious with the above information that supplementation with CoQ-10 could be an integral part of one's supplementation program. When making the decision as to what supplements should be take, don't forget CoQ-10 it might just be your fountain of youth!
Works Cited
1. Lee, William. (1987). Coenzyme Q-10: Is it our fountain of youth? New Cannan, CT: Keats, p. 14.
2. Ibid p. 7.
3. Ibid.
4. Pizzorno, Joseph., Murray, Michael. (2006). Textbook of Natural Medicine (3rd Ed. Vol. 1. St. Louis, MO: Churchill/Livingston Elsevier, p. 860.
5. Retrieved April 16, 2008 from: http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/f-w02/coenzymeq10.html
6. Pizzorno, Joseph., Murray, Michael.� (2006). Textbook of Natural Medicine (3rd Ed. Vol. 1. St. Louis, MO: Churchill/Livingston Elsevier, p. 859.
7. Ibid.
8. http://faculty.washington.edu/ely/coenzq10abs.html#PREFACE
9. Pizzorno, Joseph., Murray, Michael. (2006). Textbook of Natural Medicine (3rd Ed. Vol. 1. St. Louis, MO: Churchill/Livingston Elsevier, p. 860.
10. Ibid.
11. Ibid.
12. http://faculty.washington.edu/ely/coenzq10abs.html#PREFACE
13. Pizzorno, Joseph., Murray, Michael. (2006). Textbook of Natural Medicine (3rd Ed. Vol. 1. St. Louis, MO: Churchill/Livingston Elsevier, p. 861.
14. Lee, William. (1987). Coenzyme Q-10: Is it our fountain of youth? New Cannan, CT: Keats, p. 23.
15. Ibid p. 15.
16. Ibid p. 7.
17. Ibid p. 9.
18. Ibid p. 17.
19. Ibid p. 18.
20. Ibid p. 2.
21. Ibid p. 25.