Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Specialist

also ubiquinone

What it isCoQ10 is a fat-soluble compound found in mitochondrial membranes throughout the body. The body synthesizes it through the mevalonate pathway — the same pathway statins inhibit.

DoesShuttles electrons in the mitochondrial electron transport chain to make ATP and serves as a potent membrane antioxidant.

GoodAdequate CoQ10 supports energy production, cardiac, and antioxidant defense.

BadLow CoQ10 contributes to fatigue, muscle pain, and cardiovascular issues. Statins suppress CoQ10 synthesis. Levels decline with age.

Standard

0.4–1.6 µg/mL.

Optimal

1.1–1.8 µg/mL (higher is good within range)

Modifiers

Falls with statins, age; absorption better with fat.

How to optimize

Lifestyle: —
Diet: Organ meats, fatty fish, beef, peanuts; modest amounts only.
Supplements: Ubiquinol (the reduced, more bioavailable form, 100–200mg/day) — particularly on statins or after age 50.
Peptides: —
Drugs: — --

within Vitamins