CoQ10

What is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is one of today’s most popular dietary supplements. It is not a vitamin because it is a substance made by the body; however, it is similar in structure to vitamins such as vitamin K [^[1]].

CoQ10 is a substance produced naturally by the body that plays a role in cell growth and maintenance. It is fat-soluble, so its absorption is increased with a fatty meal [^[2]].

CoQ10 is present in all body tissues. The highest concentrations are seen in tissues with high energy requirements: the heart, kidney, liver, and muscle [^[1]]. In tissues with abundant CoQ10, the CoQ10 is focused in the mitochondria, the cell’s energy powerhouse.

What does CoQ10 do in the body?

CoQ10 helps convert food into energy and serves as an antioxidant. Its specific role involves turning energy from carbohydrates and fats into chemicals that can power cells’ machinery to ensure proper cellular function [^[3]].

As a scavenger of free radicals, CoQ10 reduces inflammation. As a result, It has been recommended for a variety of inflammatory diseases. CoQ10 ensures the immune response has the proper energy supply and cell types [^[2]].

Two common uses of CoQ10 in the clinic are congestive heart failure and statin-associated myopathy syndrome [^[4]].

How can CoQ10 help alleviate certain Long COVID symptoms and pathophysiology? 

In addition to generating chemical energy for cells, CoQ10 has antioxidant functions in the body. It can recycle other antioxidants to increase antioxidant bioavailability, which can be helpful for COVID long-haulers who may deal with inflammation [^[4]].

Studies have found that CoQ10 improves performance, lessens fatigue in healthy individuals, and chronic fatigue syndrome and juvenile fibromyalgia [^[2]].