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What is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)?

Roz Witney RNutr FRSPH

What is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)?
CoQ10 is a molecule present in almost every cell of the body. It's essential for cellular energy production, due to it's role in producing ATP.  Think of ATP as the fuel that powers our cells. 

CoQ10 also acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Because it supports both energy production and cellular health, CoQ10 is particularly important for energy-demanding organs like the heart, brain, and muscles.

How CoQ10 works

Every time you move, think or even breathe, your cells rely on ATP to fuel those actions. CoQ10 is needed to power that process, helping to move electrons along the chain that produces ATP inside the mitochondria. It's a crucial link in your body’s internal energy circuit.


As we age, natural CoQ10 production slows down. By the time we reach our sixties, our hearts can contain up to 50% less CoQ10 than they did in early adulthood. This decline affects how efficiently our cells generate energy, which is one reason why fatigue, slower recovery and reduced endurance often appear with age.


CoQ10 also helps defend your cells from oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to the ageing process. By stabilising free radicals (free radicals sound like a far left political party, but they are actually unstable molecules formed as part of everyday metabolic processes), it reduces cellular damage and supports cellular health throughout the body. So, CoQ10 contributes not only to sustained energy but also to the long-term health of the cardiovascular system, brain, and skin.

When and why CoQ10 levels decline

As said, CoQ10 levels start to decline as we age.  This decline starts from around age 30, declining more sharply after 50. Several factors can accelerate this loss, including oxidative stress (hard to avoid, especially as we age), illness, certain medications (such as statins), and poor diet.


Because CoQ10 is fat-soluble, dietary absorption can be inconsistent, especially in people with digestive issues or low dietary fat intake. Supplementation can provide a way to restore optimal levels and maintain mitochondrial efficiency — helping the body sustain energy, protect against fatigue and support long-term cardiovascular health.

Why bio-fermented CoQ10?

At CAMINO, we use bio-fermented CoQ10 (ubiquinone) — produced through an advanced fermentation process that creates a 100% bioidentical form of the molecule. This is important because it mirrors the CoQ10 your body naturally makes, ensuring maximum purity and absorption.


Synthetic or poorly absorbed versions of CoQ10 can vary in quality and effectiveness. Our bio-fermented form is both clean and highly bioavailable, allowing the body to absorb and utilise it efficiently for cellular energy support.

Who should avoid CoQ10?

CoQ10 is well tolerated by most adults, but certain people should seek medical advice before use. This includes those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, take anticoagulant medication such as warfarin, or have a long-term medical condition. Always consult your healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement.

Key takeaway

Beyond energy, CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress, one of the leading causes of ageing and chronic inflammation. This makes it a key nutrient for heart health, youthful skin, and sustained vitality. 

 

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