The adage of age being nothing but a number doesn’t always hold up. It applies most of the time, but age can make things a little harder on the body. As you get older, your body changes the way it produces and stores nutrients.
You might have heard of a nutrient called coenzyme Q10, also called CoQ10. It’s a compound that helps give cells energy and acts as a powerful antioxidant. Low levels of it are associated with inflammatory conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and brain disorders.
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With age, however, your ability to produce CoQ10 decreases and it could put you at risk for a host of conditions.
CoQ10s most significant benefit is its ability to fight oxidative stress. Its antioxidant properties protect your cells and tissues from damage, making you less susceptible to disease and cell damage.
Some benefits associated with adequate CoQ10 include:
- Heart health. CoQ10 may protect against oxidative damage in the veins and arteries. This can result in lower blood pressure and reduced risk for heart disease/heart attack.
- Reduces skin damage. CoQ10 levels are associated with wrinkles and strong skin. CoQ10 can also improve skin reaction to harmful UV rays.
- May improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels.
- Promotes a healthy brain by limiting oxidative damage and boosting energy in brain cells.
There can be a lot of antioxidants to keep track of. Vitamin C, vitamin A, flavonoids, and more all add up. The good thing is that you really don’t need to focus on individual nutrients if you’re eating a well-balanced diet.
You can find CoQ10 in foods like:
- Pork, beef, chicken
- Fatty fish like trout, herring, and mackerel
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Oranges
- Strawberries
- Peanuts
- Lentils
- Pistachios
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As you can see, it’s found in a variety of foods. Supplements, of course, are also available.
CoQ10 supplements have two forms: ubiquinol and ubiquinone. Ubiquinol is the most absorbable form, while it also accounts for 90% of CoQ10 in the blood. That’s the way to go if opting for supplementation.
Making sure you’re getting adequate nutrition is the best way to limit age to a number. Giving your body what it needs can help you stay happy and healthy for years to come.
Devon Andre has been involved in the health and dietary supplement industry for a number of years. Devon has written extensively for Bel Marra Health. He has a Bachelor of Forensic Science from the University of Windsor, and went on to complete a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh. Devon is keenly aware of trends and new developments in the area of health and wellness. He embraces an active lifestyle combining diet, exercise and healthy choices. By working to inform readers of the options available to them, he hopes to improve their health and quality of life.
