How to fuel your body – CoQ10 vs. Ubiquinol for Energy Production

As we move further into 2020 and settle into the working year, we might start to see a dip in our energy levels. To offset this, looking towards supplementation might help keep you on track. Both Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and Ubiquinol can help in boosting energy levels, but which is best, and why?

CoQ10 is an antioxidant, which is used to produce energy within every cell in your body. It helps to protect against free radicals, and supports the body as it ages.[1] However, our bodies have to convert CoQ10 into Ubiquinol in order for it to be processed and used to create cellular energy. Ubiquinol, therefore, can be described as CoQ10 with an X-factor. Ubiquinol is the active form of CoQ10, which ensures it is more easily absorbed into the body. As the advanced form of CoQ10, Ubiquinol is used to power the body’s most vital organs and muscles, including the brain, the heart, the liver and kidneys. Ubiquinol can be absorbed into the body through foods, such as meat, fish and wholegrains, however the body’s significant requirements mean that supplementation through food is often inadequate.[2]

To assess which is the optimum supplement for energy production, we’ve developed a helpful breakdown of the difference between the two, and what may be best to incorporate into your daily health plan.

• CoQ10 has been the focus of hundreds of studies over the years, with the spotlight now firmly on Ubiquinol as more effective options
• 55 clinical studies focussing on Ubiquinol and its benefits highlight the superior efficacy of Ubiquinol over CoQ10
• Ubiquinol has superior bioavailability to ordinary CoQ10[3]
• Ubiquinol is 3-8 times more absorbable than CoQ10[4]
• Ubiquinol is the most effective form of CoQ10[5]

As a supplement, Ubiquinol provides benefit in its ability to:

• Assist the body in converting cellular energy
• Aid in soaking up oxidative stress and offset the impact of free radicals[6]
• Support heart health by helping to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system[7]
• Help to maintain sperm health, sperm mobility and sperm production[8]
• Maintain healthy LDL cholesterol levels and reduce side effects like muscle pain and tension, when taking statins for cholesterol management[9]

Always read the label. Use only as directed. Ask your healthcare practitioner if Ubiquinol supplementation may be suitable for you.

[1] Saini, R. Coenzyme Q10: The essential nutrient. Journal of Pharmacy and Bioalllied Sciences. 2011 Jul-Sep; 3(3): 466-467.

[2] Saini, R. Coenzyme Q10: The essential nutrient. Journal of Pharmacy and Bioalllied Sciences. 2011 Jul-Sep; 3(3): 466-467.

[3] Zhang, Y., Liu, J., Chen, X-Q. and Chen, C.Y.O. Ubiquinol is superior to ubiquinone to enhance Coenzyme Q10 status in older men. Food & Function. 2018; 9: 5653-5659.

[4] Alf, F., Schmidt, M.E., Siebrecht, S.C. Ubiquinol supplementation enhances peak power production in trained athletes: a double-blind, placebo controlled study. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. 2013; 10(24).

[5] Zhang, Y., Liu, J., Chen, X-Q. and Chen, C.Y.O. Ubiquinol is superior to ubiquinone to enhance Coenzyme Q10 status in older men. Food & Function. 2018; 9: 5653-5659.

[6] Saini, R. Coenzyme Q10: The essential nutrient. Journal of Pharmacy and Bioalllied Sciences. 2011 Jul-Sep; 3(3): 466-467.

[7] Saini, R. Coenzyme Q10: The essential nutrient. Journal of Pharmacy and Bioalllied Sciences. 2011 Jul-Sep; 3(3): 466-467.

[8] Thakur, A.S., Littarru, G.P., Funahashi, I., Painkara, U.S., Dange, N.S. and Chauhan, P. Effect of Ubiquinol Therapy on Sperm parameters and Serum Testosterone levels in Oligoasthenozoospermic Infertile Men. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research. 2015 Sep; 9(9): BC01-BC03.

[9] Cohen, M. Ubiquinol (Reduced Coenzyme Q10): A novel yet ubiquitous nutrient for heart disease. Journal of Advanced Nutrition and Human Medicine. 2015; 2: e647.