Coenzyme Q10 and its effect on the heart: deep immersion
What is Coenzym Q10?
Coenzym Q10 (COQ10), also known as Kilikhinon, is a fat -soluble substance that is naturally present in every cell of the human body. It plays a key role in the production of energy at the cellular level, and also acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting the cells from damage caused by free radicals. COQ10 is concentrated in organs with high energy needs, such as the heart, liver and kidneys. The name “Kilikhinon” comes from the Latin word “ubiquitous”, which means “ubiquitous”, reflecting its ubiquitous spread in living organisms.
At the chemical level, COQ10 is a benzochinone with 10 isoprelyl units in the side chain. These isopreline units make the molecule fat -soluble and allow it to function inside cell membranes, in particular, in the internal membrane of mitochondria.
Coenzyme functions Q10 in the heart:
The heart is an organ that is constantly working, requiring a huge amount of energy to maintain its pump function. COQ10 plays a decisive role in ensuring this energy, performing the following key functions:
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Energy production (ATF): COQ10 is an integral part of the electron-transport circuit in mitochondria, cellular “power plants”. In this chain, electrons are transferred from one complex to another, generating a proton gradient, which, in turn, is used for the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the main “currency” of energy used by cells to fulfill almost all of its functions, including reducing the heart muscle. COQ10 acts as a mobile carrier of electrons between complexes I and II, as well as between complex III. Without a sufficient amount of COQ10, the electron-transport chain cannot function effectively, which leads to a decrease in the production of ATP and, therefore, to a decrease in energy available to the heart.
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Antioxidant Protection: The heart is subjected to constant exposure to oxidative stress, which occurs due to the high consumption of oxygen and the production of free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, DNA and other important components. COQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals, protecting the heart cells from oxidative damage. He does this, giving an electron to a free radical, stabilizing it and preventing it from a damaging effect. COQ10 can exist in two main forms: Kilikhinon (oxidized form) and Kilikhinol (restored form). Kilikhinol is an active antioxidant form. After neutralization of the free radical, Kilikhinol turns into a Milkhinon, which can be regenerated back to the Milkhinol by other enzymes in the body.
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Improving endothelial function: Endothelium is a thin layer of cells lining the inner surface of blood vessels. It plays an important role in the regulation of blood flow, blood pressure and blood coagulation. Endotothelium damage (endothelial dysfunction) is an early sign of cardiovascular disease. COQ10 can improve the endothelial function, protecting the endothelial cells from oxidative damage and supporting their normal function. This can lead to an improvement in blood flow and a decrease in the risk of cardiovascular events.
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Anti -inflammatory action: Chronic inflammation plays an important role in the development of many cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis. COQ10 has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system. He can inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and the factor of Alpha tumor necrosis (TNF-α), thereby reducing the inflammatory response.
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Regulation of blood pressure: Some studies show that COQ10 can help reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension. The mechanism of this action has not been completely studied, but it is assumed that it is associated with the improvement of endothelial function, a decrease in oxidative stress and an improvement in the function of mitochondria in blood vessel cells.
Factors affecting the level of COQ10 in the heart:
COQ10 level in the heart can decrease for various reasons:
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Age: With age, the natural production of COQ10 in the body decreases. This decrease can contribute to age-related changes in the cardiovascular system and an increase in the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
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Statin: Statins are drugs that are widely used to reduce blood cholesterol. They block the HMG-COA enzyme reductase, which is necessary for cholesterol synthesis. However, the same enzyme is also necessary for the synthesis of COQ10. Therefore, taking statins can lead to a decrease in the level of COQ10 in the body, including the heart. Many doctors recommend taking COQ10 additives along with statins to compensate for this decrease.
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Heart disease: Some heart disease, such as heart failure, cardiomyopathy and coronary heart disease, can lead to a decrease in the level of COQ10 in the heart. This may be due to the increased COQ10 consumption to compensate for the increased load on the heart or with a violation of its synthesis.
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Other drugs: In addition to statins, other drugs, such as beta-blockers, tricyclic antidepressants and some antidiabetic drugs, can also reduce the COQ10 level.
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Malnutrition: COQ10 is contained in small quantities in some foods, such as meat, fish, nuts and vegetable oils. Insufficient consumption of these products can lead to COQ10 deficiency.
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Genetic factors: Genetic factors can affect the body’s ability to synthesize COQ10. Some people may have genetic options that lead to a decrease in COQ10 production.
COQ10 with various cardiovascular diseases:
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Heart failure: Heart failure is a condition in which the heart cannot effectively pump blood to meet the needs of the body. COQ10 can be useful for heart failure, since it improves the function of mitochondria and increases the production of energy in the heart cells. Several clinical studies have shown that COQ10 can improve heart failure symptoms, such as shortness of breath, fatigue and swelling. It can also improve the function of the left ventricle, the main pumping department of the heart. A large randomized controlled study (Q-Symbio) showed that the addition of COQ10 to standard therapy for heart failure reduces the risk of serious cardiovascular events and mortality.
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Corny heart (coronary heart disease): IBS is a condition in which arteries supplying the heart with blood are narrowed due to the formation of plaques (atherosclerosis). COQ10 can be useful for coronary heart disease, since it protects the heart cells from oxidative damage and improves endothelial function. Some studies have shown that COQ10 can reduce the frequency of angina attacks (chest pain caused by insufficient blood supply to the heart) and improve the tolerance of physical activity in people with coronary heart disease.
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Arterial hypertension (hypertension): As mentioned earlier, COQ10 can help reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension. The meta analysis of several clinical studies showed that COQ10 can reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure by an average of several millimeters of the mercury pillar.
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Cardiomyopathy: Cardiomyopathy is a disease in which the heart muscle becomes thickened, stretched or rigid, which complicates its effective functioning. COQ10 can be useful in some forms of cardiomyopathy, since it improves the function of mitochondria and protects the heart cells from damage.
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Myocarditis: Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle. COQ10 can have an anti -inflammatory effect and protect the heart cells from damage during myocardium.
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Atrial fibrillation: Atrial fibrillation is a type of irregular heartbeat, which can increase the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular complications. Some preliminary studies show that COQ10 can help prevent or reduce atrial fibrillation after heart surgery.
COQ10 forms and dosage:
COQ10 is available in two main forms: Kilikhinon and Kilikhinol. Kilikhinol is considered a more bio -access form, which means that it is better absorbed by the body. However, Kilikhinon is also effective, and many people react well to him. The transformation of Kilikhinon into Kilikhinol occurs in the body, but with age this ability can decrease.
The dosage of COQ10 depends on a specific disease and individual needs. Usually recommended doses vary from 30 mg to 300 mg per day, but in some cases higher doses may be required. It is important to consult a doctor to determine the optimal dosage.
Safety and side effects:
COQ10 is usually considered safe for most people. Side effects are usually rare and insignificant and can include nausea, stomach disorder, diarrhea and headache. COQ10 can interact with some drugs such as warfarin (anticoagulant), so it is important to inform the doctor about taking COQ10.
COQ10 sources:
COQ10 is contained in small quantities in some food products, including:
- Meat: Beef, pork, chicken
- Fish: Salmon, tuna, sardines
- Nuts: Arachis, pistachios
- Vegetable oils: Soy oil, rapeseed oil
- Vegetables: Spinach, broccoli
However, getting enough COQ10 only from food can be difficult, especially with age or when taking statins. Therefore, COQ10 additives can be a useful way to increase the COQ10 level in the body.
Choosing the COQ10 additive:
When choosing a COQ10 additive, it is important to consider the following factors to consider:
- COQ10 form: Choose Kilikhinol or Kilikhinon, depending on your preferences and individual needs.
- Reputation manufacturer: Choose additives from well -known manufacturers that adhere to strict quality standards.
- Forter tests: Look for additives that have passed third -party trials for cleanliness and efficiency.
- Dosage: Choose an additive with a dosage corresponding to your needs.
Prospects for the future:
COQ10 studies continue, and in the future new data may appear on its benefits for the health of the heart. Some promising areas of research include:
- The use of COQ10 in combination with other methods of treating cardiovascular diseases.
- The study of the effect of COQ10 on specific subgroups of patients with cardiovascular diseases.
- Development of new and more effective forms of COQ10.
CoQ10 and a healthy lifestyle:
It is important to note that COQ10 is not a panacea from cardiovascular diseases. It should be used in combination with a healthy lifestyle, which includes:
- Healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and lean proteins.
- Regular physical exercises: At least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of intensive activity per week.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Avoid overweight and obesity.
- Refusal of smoking: Smoking is the main risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
- Control of blood pressure and cholesterol: Spended blood pressure and cholesterol and take medications regularly, if necessary.
- Stress management: Use stress control techniques such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing.
COQ10 can be a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle to maintain heart health, but it should not replace standard treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Always consult a doctor to determine the best course of treatment for you.