Reducing the Risk of Cardiac Ischaemia for Athletes, Mountaineers and those Living at High Altitudes

High altitude environments pose unique challenges to human physiology, particularly due to hypoxia (low oxygen levels), with high-altitude exposure often leading to acute mountain sickness (AMS), impaired cognitive function and cardiovascular stress with high-altitude changing the electrical conduction of the heart.

This 2024 study, published in April, investigated the effects of Ubiquinol on mitigating these challenges, and determined that Ubiquinol supplementation could improve impaired cardiovascular function during high-altitude acclimatisation and de-acclimatisation.

The study explored the effect of Ubiquinol on electrocardiogram (ECG) combined with cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) after acute high-altitude hypoxia exposure and subsequent reoxygenation.

📊 Key findings

200 mg of Ubiquinol daily significantly shortened the prolonged Tpeak-Tend interval and reserved maximal heart rate during exercise at high altitude.

Meaning: for individuals preparing for high-altitude expeditions or living in such environments, incorporating Ubiquinol into their dietary supplements could significantly enhance their physiological resilience and performance.

This makes Ubiquinol a potent ally in maintaining health and performance in high-altitude settings, ensuring that individuals can thrive even in the face of reduced oxygen levels.

🧑🏽‍🤝‍🧑Participants: 39 healthy adults, aged 18-55 years, completed the 4-week trial

📄Methods: As part of the Shigatse CARdiopulmonary Fitness (SCARF) prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 2022, participants were randomly divided into two groups receiving 200 mg Ubiquinol (or placebo) daily for 14 days before flying to high altitude (3900 m), one week at the high-altitude and another week after returning to lower altitude (300 m).

The study focused on the Ubiquinol-induced ECG changes and the ECG parameters, which can be used to predict cardiac function and physical exercise capacity during acclimatisation.

🔬Results: Participants receiving Ubiquinol exhibited significantly higher blood oxygen saturation levels compared to the placebo group. This improvement in oxygen utilisation enhanced efficiency of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems under hypoxic conditions, with improved resting heart rate and better recovery after exercise at high-altitude.

Ubiquinol’s superior bioavailability ensures that the body receives adequate antioxidant protection, which is crucial in environments where oxidative stress is elevated. The reduction in fatigue and improvement in cognitive function also suggest that Ubiquinol can enhance overall wellbeing and performance in challenging conditions.

The study’s outcomes highlight Ubiquinol’s potential as a protective agent against the adverse effects of high-altitude hypoxia. By enhancing mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress, Ubiquinol supports better oxygen utilisation and cardiovascular health. These benefits are particularly relevant for athletes, mountaineers, and individuals living at high altitudes.

Reference:
Liu Z, et al. Effect of ubiquinol on electrophysiology during high-altitude acclimatization and de-acclimatization: A substudy of the Shigatse CARdiorespiratory fitness (SCARF) randomized clinical trial. Int J Cardiol 2024;401:131817.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Consult your healthcare professional to establish if Ubiquinol is suitable for your needs.