Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women in the United States, and most of these cases are preventable. I will repeat this statement, heart disease is the number of killer of all people in the United States, and most of these cases are preventable. Many address heart disease with diet and exercise, while others treat it with medication, and some will treat it with a combination of both. A few unlucky individuals find out too late and will be unable to reverse the effects of heart disease.
LDL or bad cholesterol has long been known to be the culprit of heart disease. Although lifestyle factors do play a role in high cholesterol, some individuals have a genetic predisposition to an increased risk of heart disease. For those concerned because of family history, an increase risk due to lifestyle, or are just looking to prevent heart disease, nutritional supplementation may be beneficial.
CoQ10 is an enzyme found in mitochondria, the energy producing structures in all cells. This enzyme is required to make the body’s engine run, as it works as an antioxidant to protect DNA from damage, helps provide energy needed to heal and has been linked to helping control cholesterol levels. A low level of CoQ10 has been seen in individuals with cardiac failure.
If you have heart disease, you know that statins are the medications of choice and you may know that muscle pain and weakening are common side effects of these drugs. Researchers believe that taking CoQ10 may reduce the risk of serious muscle damage due to statins and it may reduce the muscle and joint pain that results from taking statin medications. Statins, along with aging, reduce the amount of CoQ10 that the body produces. Decreased CoQ10 causes decreased heart muscle repair and decreased energy.
CoQ10 enzyme is found primarily in organ meats such as heart and liver, though not many of us had beef heart for dinner last night. Fruits and vegetables are not a good source of CoQ10; consequently, supplementation is thebest bet for receiving adequate amounts. Adults under 40 should take a supplement containing 100 mg/day.Adults over 40, as well as people taking a statin, need 200mg a day and studies have shown up to 300mg a day can be taken without side effects.
Diet and exercise changes are still the best choice for reducing or preventing the risk for heart disease, but adding CoQ10 can also be a great benefit. Other supplements that can help reduce heart disease risk are garlic, red yeast rice, and vitamin E. Heart disease maybe the number one killer, but remember heart disease is also preventable.
Yours in Health,
Dr. Justin Hildebrand