CoQ10: Dosage, benefits and side effects

December 2019
Kathy W. Warwick, R.D., CDE

Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a naturally occurring chemical that exists in almost every cell of the human body. CoQ10 carries out several vital roles, including promoting energy production and neutralizing harmful particles called free radicals.

A deficiency in CoQ10 can adversely affect a person’s health. People can get CoQ10 through foods and supplements.

In this article, we discuss the benefits, side effects, and recommended dosages of CoQ10.

What is CoQ10?

CoQ10 is an essential nutrient present in almost every cell of the human body. The following foods also contain CoQ10:

• oily fish
• organ meats
• eggs
• nuts
• whole grains

CoQ10 plays a vital role in energy production and DNA replication and repair. It also acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals.

Several factors can lower CoQ10 levels in the body. These include:

• aging
• taking statins, which are cholesterol-lowering medications
• genetic mutations that affect the production of CoQ10
• disorders of the mitochondria, which are the parts of the cell that generate energy