Ubiquinol is the active form of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an essential nutrient. This means that it has the same properties as CoQ10, but the body does not have to activate it for it to perform its function.
The human body produces CoQ10 naturally, but levels begin to decline after the age of 30. Numerous studies have found a deficiency of this nutrient in adults and older people.
Other causes of CoQ10 deficiency are: the use of drugs to lower bad cholesterol (statins), nutritional deficiencies, and genetic defects that affect CoQ10 synthesis.
Some health conditions, such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes and some types of cancer have also been linked to CoQ10 deficiency. It is not clear whether CoQ10 deficiency is the cause or the result of these diseases. But one thing is clear: studies show great health benefits for people who take a CoQ10 supplement or its active version: Ubiquinol. Here are five of them:
1. Protects the lungs. Of all the organs in the human body, the lungs have the most contact with oxygen. Inhaled oxygen penetrates the lungs and makes them more vulnerable to oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance in our cells due to an increase in free radicals and/or a decrease in antioxidants, including a deficiency of CoQ10. Over time, this increase in free radicals can cause damage to lung tissue and lead to diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine showed that 100 mg daily of CoQ10 Ubiquinol reduces inflammation and improves airflow in the lungs. Another study published in the scientific journal BioFactors showed that CoQ10 reduces inflammation in asthma patients and the use of steroid-containing medications (corticosteroids) to treat it.1,2
The National Emphysema Foundation recognizes that experts recommend CoQ10 as a nutritional supplement for lung health and lowering inflammation in patients with lung disease.3
2. Helps patients with heart failure. Heart failure occurs when the heart muscle is too weak or when another health problem prevents blood from circulating efficiently and the heart cannot pump blood efficiently. This weakening of the heart’s pumping ability causes: pooling of blood and fluid in the lungs, fluid accumulation in the feet, ankles and legs (edema), tiredness and fatigue.
In a study at the East Texas Medical Center, Ubiquinol was given to patients with congestive heart failure. After several weeks of daily use, the researchers noted a significant increase in the mean ejection fraction level of 17%.4
What is ejection fraction? Think of this concept as the “horsepower of the heart”. Cardiologists measure ejection fraction as the power of the heart and its ability to pump blood to the rest of the body.
A study published in Cardiovascular Pharmacology shows that CoQ10 may help protect the heart and prevent cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide.5
3. Helps prevent diabetes. Several human studies have indicated that Ubiquinol supplementation can reduce glucose levels. In a study recently published in the British Journal of Nutritionresearchers from Taiwan found that Ubiquinol caused a significant decrease in blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes after 12 weeks of use.6
Another recent study published in Cientific Report suggests that CoQ10 and Ubiquinol also improves insulin resistance caused by exposure to a diet high in fat and sugars, helping to break down fat, prevent obesity and type 2 diabetes.7
4. Strengthens the immune system. The cells and organs of the immune system require a lot of energy and therefore require a higher amount of CoQ10 to function properly.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) in the United States recognizes that CoQ10 has demonstrated its ability to strengthen the immune system.8 By providing the cellular energy needed by cells and organs of the immune system, such as the bone marrow in adults, where B lymphocytes mature, and the thymus, the endocrine gland where T lymphocytes mature.
CoQ10 plays an enormously important role in cellular energy production, and so it is not surprising that within our body we have the highest concentrations where energy is most needed: the heart, brain, liver and kidneys.
5. Prevents cancer. Although it is possible that CoQ10 may act indirectly against cancer through its effects on the immune system, studies indicate that analogues of this compound may directly suppress cancer growth.
It should be recalled that studies have found low levels of CoQ10 in people with some types of cancer.
As mentioned above, oxidative stress causes cell damage and affects cell function. If your body cannot properly fight oxidative stress, cell structure is damaged and the risk of cancer increases. That’s why experts recommend a diet rich in antioxidants that includes plenty of fruits, green vegetables, and a daily Ubiquinol supplement.
Experts recommend Ubiquinol to get the most benefits from CoQ10. Studies suggest that Ubiquinol is the most effective form to ingest because it is more bioavailable than regular CoQ10. This is an advantage for those patients who have cardiovascular problems or metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, or even patients over the age of 30. So, compared to CoQ10, when you take Ubiquinol you get more bang for your buck.
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