Co-Q10 May Lessen Oxidative Stress

Co-enzyme Q10 – also known as ubiquinone – is a powerful antioxidant found in every cell of the body, where it has important functions within the mitochondria – the “powerhouses” of cells. Bor-Jen Lee, from Chung Shan Medical University (Taiwan), and colleagues enrolled 51 men and women with coronary artery disease for a 12-week long study.  Each subject assigned to one of three groups: one group received 60 mg per day of Co-Q10, the second group received 150 mg daily of Co-Q10, and a third group received placebo.  Among those subjects who received 150 mg CoQ10, the team found that blood levels of Co-Q10 increased by 189%, with a resulting 29% reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA, a marker of oxidative stress). MDA levels among the group receiving 60-mg and those on placebo showed no significant change. As well, among those on 150 mg CoQ10, the team observed a definitive stimulation of the body’s antioxidant defenses, with the levels of key antioxidant enzymes significantly increased, as compared to the placebo group. Writing that: “Coenzyme Q10 supplements at a dose of 150 mg can decrease oxidative stress and increase antioxidant enzyme activity in patients with [coronary artery disease],” the study authors submit that: “A higher dose of coenzyme Q10 supplements (>150 mg/day) might promote rapid and sustainable antioxidation in patients with [coronary artery disease].”