| Co-enzyme Q10 | |||||
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Co-enzyme Q10 (also known as ubiquinone) is a vitamin-like nutrient that is naturally present in all human cells. It is responsible for the production of the body’s own energy through the action of the mitochondria. The lungs, heart and liver have the highest concentrations of co-enzyme Q10, as these organs have the highest energy requirements of all organs in the body.
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- Co-enzyme Q10 is needed to release energy inside all cells in the body
- Co-enzyme Q10 is found in the highest proportions inside the mitochonria, but is also found in the endoplastic reticulum and lysosomes (basically within cells)
- Co-enzyme Q10 acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting the cells against oxidative damage
- Co-enzyme Q10 helps to prolong the activity and action of vitamin E
- The levels of co-enzyme Q10 generally lower with age and in people with some illness, such as heart disease
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Why co-enzyme Q10 is important
Co-enzyme Q10 is vitally important as it releases energy inside cells. It has an potent action to ensure that the cells are continually functioning effectively.
Co-enzyme Q10 can be biosynthesised from tyrosine through a multistage process, which also requires many other vitamins and minerals to complete this process.
references
- Osiecki, Henry, The Nutrient Bible 2002, BioConcepts Publishing
- Osiecki, Henry. The Physician's Handbook of Clinical Nutrition. 6th edition, 2001, BioConcepts Publishing
- Rolfes SR, Pinna K, Whitney E. Understanding Normal and Clinical Nutrition. 7th Edition, 2005. Brooks Cole Publishing
To learn more, go to the following web sites:
- Food Standards Australia and New Zealand
- Dieticians Association of Australia
- Nutrient Reference Values (Australia)
