Nowadays, modern nutritional supplements and preparations often contain coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) – how much do we really know about it and do we need it? First of all, what is a coenzyme? Enzymes are proteins that play the role of catalysts in our body – they speed up chemical processes and direct them towards the correct outcome. Without them, life simply would not be possible. A coenzyme (also known as a cofactor) is a particle attached to an enzyme that gives it catalytic abilities, it is the driving force that spurs the enzyme to initiate and accelerate chemical reactions. Without this “assistant”, our metabolism would not be able to function, so we would easily succumb to various disorders.
There are several types of coenzymes, and the one we are currently interested in – Q10 – has the primary task of supplying cells, specifically mitochondria, with energy, which is then used for normal cellular functions of the entire body. Coenzyme Q10 also has a strong antioxidant effect. Our body produces this liposoluble (soluble in fat) element on its own, and we also ingest it through food. Admittedly, although it is present in some foods, such as meat, fish, nuts, green leafy vegetables and legumes, only 25 per cent of the total amount of this coenzyme in the body comes from food. As we age, its level decreases, hence the need to take it through supplements. From which sources can we get this coenzyme today? In the past, scientists isolated it from horse tissue, but today it is mainly derived from fermented yeast.
WHICH PROCESSES IN THE BODY ARE AFFECTED BY COENZYME Q10?
As coenzyme Q10 is necessary for normal metabolism and energy, it is logical to conclude that it can improve our physical performance, which is especially important for athletes. And indeed, studies have proven that this coenzyme improves endurance and postpones exhaustion, thus helping us to – as the Olympic slogan says – go citius, altius, fortius – faster, higher and stronger. But this vitamin-like element does not just give us a boost of energy when it comes to sports. Numerous studies have confirmed that it can reverse some serious diseases, including heart failure, a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, the mitochondria do not function properly, which causes oxidative stress – free radicals are created rapidly and the body has no mechanisms to neutralise them. The strong antioxidant effect of coenzyme Q10 prevents the oxidation of proteins and DNA, so its supplementation can significantly improve the condition of patients who suffered heart failure.
Coenzyme Q10 is also valuable for people suffering from metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, mainly because of its antioxidant properties. There are indications that this coenzyme can alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and relieve headaches. Long-term supplementation affects the lowering of bad cholesterol levels and the stabilisation of insulin levels in the blood, especially in combination with other supplements. The reduced form of this coenzyme also improves kidney function, prevents chronic inflammation associated with disorders that occur in old age, as well as neurodegenerative diseases. As healthy blood flow is necessary for normal fertility, especially in men, supplementation with this coenzyme can improve the concentration, density and mobility of spermatozoa.
COENZYME THAT REJUVENATES THE SKIN
Coenzyme Q10 has found its widest usage in cosmetics. As an antioxidant, it is responsible for slowing down the biological clock, both inside the body and on the skin. By reducing oxidative stress, it prevents inflammatory processes, protects against lipid peroxidation (lipid damage in the cell membrane) and promotes the building of collagen. Not only does coenzyme Q10 act as an antioxidant, it also enhances the work of other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, which are essential for healthy and beautiful skin.
One of the reasons for the appearance of wrinkles is precisely the fact that with age we lose the elements that contribute to the elasticity and moisture of the skin. In addition to age and genetics, our skin is also influenced by external factors, such as harmful sun radiation, heavy make-up, air pollution or smoking. As a powerful antioxidant, coenzyme Q10 protects the skin from the negative impact of UV rays – the so-called photoaging, which is characterised by the accelerated deterioration of collagen fibres and fibroblasts, the cells that produce collagen. With such activity, when applied to the skin, it is proven to contribute to the reduction of existing wrinkles and the prevention of new ones.
Just as it energises the body and helps us reach Olympic records, coenzyme Q10 does the same at the level of skin cells. By energising the skin, it helps it to be fresh, achieve a flawless complexion, free of pigmentation and blemishes. All these properties of coenzyme Q10 come to the fore when we are injured: during wound healing, it helps to keep harmful bacteria away from the wound, and by promoting the building of collagen and preventing inflammation, it contributes to faster skin renewal and healing.
There is enough evidence that coenzyme Q10 helps us maintain a youthful appearance. That is why it is a welcome addition to the Herba Svet laboratory toolset and one of the ingredients of top-quality Devi cosmetics. In Anti-Age Serum, it works in synergy with peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamins B3, E and A, promoting the formation of collagen and increasing the skin’s elasticity, which helps reduce the visibility of wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. In Antirid Anti-Age cream for the area around the eyes, in addition to numerous peptides, vitamins, precious oils and medicinal plant extracts, coenzyme Q10 contributes to the elimination of fine, mimic wrinkles and to the prevention of puffiness and dark circles. There is also a product specially designed for men’s skin care: Calming Anti-Age Gel Men hydrates and nourishes the skin, calms irritation, especially after shaving, and reduces wrinkles. Anti-Age Cream Vitamin nourishes all skin types, while Anti-Age Cream Antirid deeply nourishes and protects the skin from external negative influences.
Coenzyme Q10, the brave protector of our skin and body, really allows us to do everything faster, higher and stronger, and additionally – to be more beautiful!
