You’ve heard of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and ubiquinol but which one is best value for money and health?
CoQ10 or ubiquinol is a nutrient found in every cell of the body and is essential for cells and organs to perform at their very best.
What’s the Difference?
• Ubiquinone – the oxidised, inactive form of CoQ10. CoQ10 has been recognised for its benefits to general health and wellness as well as cardiovascular health.
• Ubiquinol – the reduced, active form of CoQ10. Ubiquinol is the major form of CoQ10 that naturally occurs in the body. More than 95% of the total CoQ10 in a young, healthy body is in the ubiquinol form. [1]
Why Ubiquinol is Best
As we age, it becomes more difficult for our body to convert CoQ10 to the active and most absorbable form, ubiquinol. So if you take the oxidised form of CoQ10 supplements, you may not be getting the most effective dose for your health.
Ubiquinol may give you the biggest bang for your buck as it has superior bioavailability to ordinary CoQ10 supplements (Ubiquinone).
Studies show that ubiquinol is more absorbable than conventional CoQ10 or Ubiquinone. [2], [3], [4]
Ubiquinol CoQ10 is more readily absorbed in the intestinal tract and therefore considered more “bioavailable” than conventional CoQ10. [5]
The amount your body absorbs will vary based on your age and overall health, but studies have consistently shown ubiquinol to be the form of CoQ10 that’s easier for the body to use.
Once absorbed, ubiquinol has many benefits for your health including:
• Powering your cells. Ubiquinol helps your body’s cells convert energy from carbohydrates and fats into energy for your body to use.
• Strong antioxidant power. Ubiquinol helps soak up oxidative stress and free radicals. [6], [7]
• Supporting the heart. Ubiquinol helps to maintain a healthy heart and vascular system.
• Cholesterol support. Ubiquinol helps maintain healthy LDL cholesterol levels in healthy people.
• Reducing inflammation. A recent German study found ubiquinol may help to reduce inflammation markers in people who are deficient in ubiquinol. The study found ubiquinol levels and inflammation markers can quickly be improved with just 14 days of ubiquinol supplementation. [8]
There are many national brands that make products that contain ubiquinol. Ask your health practitioner or local pharmacist for the best product for you.