What is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin-like compound that our body needs to keep cells healthy and energized. It jump-starts cellular respiration and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, which is the process of converting the nutrients we consume into fuel for vital biological processes. CoQ10 also plays a role as an antioxidant, helping to neutralize free radicals and combat oxidative damage to our cells, as well as to lipids, proteins and DNA. 

Multiple studies have shown a decrease in CoQ10 levels after taking statins which help lower bad cholesterol in our blood by blocking the production of an enzyme known as HMG-CoA. This is because statins may also decrease the amount of coenzyme Q10 our body produces.

Though statins may reduce our CoQ10 levels, most healthy people make enough CoQ10 to provide for the essential needs of the body. If there are CoQ10 deficiencies, muscle weakness, fatigue and difficulty thinking can occur. In rare cases, extreme deficiencies may cause cardiovascular and brain health concerns, plus other related issues.

Cold water fish, soybeans, broccoli, pork, chicken and beef all provide some CoQ10. Even the richer food sources, which typically from organ meats (for example, levels of CoQ10 found in beef hearts are substantially higher than in beef steaks), do not provide high levels. For instance, chicken liver only provides 11.6 mg in a 3.5 ounce serving. Soybeans are a higher vegetable source of CoQ10, providing 1.87 mg of CoQ10 per 3.5 ounce serving.