CoQ10 Supplements: Top Picks

CoQ10 is an antioxidant enzyme that occurs naturally in the body.

Levels decrease with age, so it may be necessary to take a supplement to keep yourself healthy.

The world of supplements is confusing, and sometimes, it is hard to understand if you need a supplement or how much and what kind you may need.

What is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is naturally present in the human body.

The substance works as an antioxidant and as an enzyme.

It occurs throughout the body but is most concentrated in the heart, kidneys, liver, and pancreas.

Antioxidants work in the body to protect against free radicals.

Free radicals are unstable atoms that are thought to cause damage to cells.

Cell damage can result in rapid aging, cancer, and other diseases.

Antioxidants trap and block these from causing so much damage to the body.

Enzymes work to catalyze reactions in the body.

Catalysts are substances that decrease the energy needed to complete a reaction. These are necessary for the body to be efficient and to work properly.

In the heart, it protects from and reduces oxidative damage.

Heart failure is a consequence of other heart diseases.

This results in increased oxidative damage and inflammation.

Patients taking these supplements have been shown to have improved heart function and increased energy output.

In the kidneys, CoQ10 protects from free radicals. It affects metabolism and whole-body health.

It is thought to be beneficial for the brain.

The substance is also suggested to help with fertility issues.

The supplement may also help prevent cancer.

If free radicals cause oxidative damage to your cells, their DNA can be altered. This alteration may cause cancer.

CoQ10 may help prevent this damage from occurring.

Why Do We Need CoQ10?

The body needs this substance to perform basic cellular functions and prevent oxidative damage.

It occurs in almost all cells in the body.

It also occurs in mitochondrial membranes. This means it is important to synthesize ATP, the molecule cells use for energy.

This substance serves many important functions and may even help treat cardiovascular disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), and diabetes mellitus.

It can potentially be a preventative measure for some cancers and neurological diseases. It may also help slow the aging process.

How Much Do You Need?

Here are the typical requirements for CoQ10.

Talk to your medical provider if you are unsure how much to have daily. 

The typical recommendation for intake is 90-200mg per day.

For certain conditions, you may require different amounts of CoQ10.

Please speak with your doctor before starting a supplement.

They can tell you how much you need and give you personalized instructions for taking CoQ10.

Should I Take a Supplement?

Supplements may be necessary for people who suffer from heart failure or are recovering from heart surgery.

It is also thought to be good for those suffering from migraines.

CoQ10 is suggested to help strengthen muscles weakened by statins (cholesterol-reducing drugs).

CoQ10 may also support athletic performance.

Can Deficiency be Harmful?

People with genetic mutations that cause primary CoQ10 deficiency may need supplements to restore muscular strength.

There are 5 major CoQ10 deficient mutations: severe infantile multi-systemic disease, encephalomyopathy, cerebellar ataxia, isolated myopathy, and nephrotic syndrome.

CoQ10 supplementation may help improve muscle strength in some patients, it may also help with some neurological issues caused by these mutations.

Deficiencies are rare; however, if you feel your diet is not providing enough nutrients, you may need a supplement.

Types of CoQ10 Supplements

CoQ10 is typically in the ubiquinone form, which is more stable than ubiquinol and is typically the most available form for purchase.

We will cover these varieties when informing you of the best supplements:

• Capsules- Capsules are pills filled with CoQ10, these are typically small and easy to swallow. They are very popular forms of supplements.
• Softgels are the liquid-filled counterparts to capsules; these are smooth and very easy to swallow. These are another very common and popular way to take a supplement.
• Liquids—There are not many liquid supplements on the market. The ones that are should be treated as any other supplement. They typically contain flavorings and are a good alternative if you cannot swallow capsules or soft gels or dislike swallowing them.
• Gummies—Gummies are a fun way to take supplements. They offer a variety of flavors and are very good for people who have difficulties with traditional capsules.
• Powders—Powders are great for adding to meals and drinks without worrying about swallowing a pill. However, powders are still supplements and should be measured and taken in the right dosage.

How Do You Choose the Best Supplement?

Choosing the best supplement is something you should discuss with your medical provider.

Here are some tips and guidelines when choosing the best CoQ10 supplement.

These tips may be used to find other supplements as well.

Please consult with your medical provider if you have any questions.

• Make sure your supplement is the right dosage.
• Ensure the quality of your supplement.
• Look for quality certifications such as USDA organic, FDA (Food and Drug Administration), GMP (Good Management Practices)
• Check to see if your supplement is third-party tested.
• If you have allergies or diet restrictions, ensure the supplement is free from these.
• Check the reviews if shopping online, these can be a good indicator of the quality of the product.

Always speak with your doctor before taking any supplements. Ask them what they would suggest for your needs.

Can You Take Too Much?

CoQ10 is generally recognized as safe; however, like all supplements, it is a good idea to take only what you need.

It is typically well-accepted in the body, even at larger doses such as 1000mg.

To get the most benefits from the best CoQ10 supplements.

Tips for Taking CoQ10

If taking supplements seems the right choice, consider these tips to maximize your CoQ10.

• Take the right dosage. If you are unsure how much you need, ask a healthcare professional.
• CoQ10 may interact with medicines like Warfarin, so check with your doctor to see if you can take it.
• It is fat-soluble, so take it with a meal high in healthy fats for the best absorption rate.
• Remember to eat healthily and exercise in order to feel the effects of any supplement better.

What are the Top 10 Best CoQ10 Supplements?

Finding the best supplements may be hard, but here is a list to get you started. As always, speak to your medical provider before starting any supplement or medication.

Here are our top ten picks for the best supplements. (These products are not arranged in any order, as they are all dependable):