How Kaneka Ubiquinol™ and Mitochondrial Function can Reduce Migraines

Migraines affect 15% of the population,[1] presenting as debilitating headaches often accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity and fatigue. Evidence highlights the use of Kaneka Ubiquinol™ in reducing mild migraine symptoms, frequency and duration. As a powerful antioxidant and essential energy cofactor, Ubiquinol may offer a natural solution to support migraine relief.

Key Research on Ubiquinol and Migraines

2018 Study (Nattagh-Eshtivani et al)

📊 Key findings

A randomised double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, of 45 women aged 20-50 years diagnosed with migraine, demonstrated that supplementing with 400mg a day of Kaneka Ubiquinol™ for 12 weeks significantly reduced migraine frequency, duration and severity without side-effects, by significantly reducing serum concentrations of lactate, pyruvate, matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and nitric oxide (NO), while improving mitochondrial function and the pathophysiology of migraines.

Supporting evidence:

• A 2021 meta-analysis reviewed six studies with a total of 371 participants and confirmed that CoQ10 supplementation significantly reduced the duration and frequency of migraine attacks compared to placebo​.[2]
• A 2019 meta-analysis concluded CoQ10 supplementation notably reduced migraine days per month and overall headache duration​.[3]

Understanding the Link Between Migraines and Mitochondrial Dysfunction

The underlying cause of migraines is multifactorial, but mitochondrial dysfunction plays a significant role. Mitochondria are the “powerhouses” of our cells, producing the energy molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP). In migraine sufferers, mitochondrial inefficiency can result in:

• Low energy availability in the brain, triggering neural instability and migraine onset
• Excessive oxidative stress due to the buildup of reactive oxygen species (ROS)
• Elevated inflammatory markers that exacerbate vascular dilation and nerve sensitivity
• Higher lactate/pyruvate (LP) ratios.

Kaneka Ubiquinol™ addresses these factors through its unique dual role as a key mitochondrial cofactor and potent antioxidant.

Mechanisms of Action: How Ubiquinol Mitigates Migraines [1]

1. Restoring Cellular Energy

Ubiquinol is a vital component of the electron transport chain within mitochondria, where it facilitates the production of ATP, the body’s primary energy source. By enhancing ATP production:

• Brain cells receive the energy they need to function efficiently
• Energy deficits, which contribute to neural excitability and migraine onset, are reduced.

In migraine patients, research shows supplementation with Kaneka Ubiquinol™ significantly improves mitochondrial efficiency by lowering elevated lactate and pyruvate levels, markers of impaired energy metabolism​.

2. Reducing Oxidative Stress

Migraine episodes are often accompanied by oxidative stress, where an imbalance between ROS and antioxidants leads to cellular damage. Kaneka Ubiquinol™ directly combats this by:

• Neutralising free radicals to protect mitochondria and brain cells from oxidative damage
• Inhibiting lipid peroxidation, which can further trigger inflammatory cascades.

This antioxidant activity is crucial because oxidative stress not only worsens migraine symptoms but also promotes neurovascular inflammation​.

3. Modulating Inflammatory Pathways

Inflammation is a recognised driver of migraines. Kaneka Ubiquinol™ helps regulate neuro-inflammatory processes by reducing levels of MMP-9, an enzyme linked to blood-brain barrier permeability and inflammation in the central nervous system.

4. Regulating Nitric Oxide (NO) Levels

Nitric oxide is a signalling molecule that plays a dual role in migraines. While NO helps maintain blood flow, excessive levels can:

• Cause dilation of cerebral blood vessels, a major trigger for migraines
• Exacerbate inflammatory reactions and increase blood-brain barrier permeability
• Increase oxidative stress by interacting with ROS, forming peroxynitrite—a harmful compound that disrupts mitochondrial function.

Kaneka Ubiquinol™ has been shown to lower NO concentrations, thereby mitigating vascular overactivity and reducing migraine symptoms​.[1]

Why Choose Kaneka Ubiquinol™?

Kaneka Ubiquinol™ is the active, most bioavailable form of a vital nutrient required for cellular energy and antioxidant support. Ubiquinol does not require conversion by the body and is readily available for the body to use, offering:

• Up to 3 – 8x greater absorption
• Enhanced support for ATP / energy production and antioxidant defence

The Takeaway: A Natural Approach to Migraine Relief

Kaneka Ubiquinol™ supplementation provides targeted support for mitochondrial function, oxidative stress reduction and inflammation regulation—three key contributors to migraine onset.

For individuals experiencing mild migraines, Kaneka Ubiquinol™ may help improve wellbeing and reduce the burden of recurring attacks.

Kaneka Ubiquinol™ supplementation is well-tolerated, making it an excellent option for individuals seeking a non-pharmacological approach to migraine support.

Kaneka Ubiquinol™ supplementation may help:

• Reduce symptoms and attack duration of migraines
• Support energy production and brain health
• Mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation linked to migraine triggers.

Incorporating Kaneka Ubiquinol™ into your daily routine is a natural, research-backed way to support your wellbeing and potentially reduce the burden of migraines.

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

References:
[1] Nattagh-Eshtivani E, et al. The effect of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on serum levels of lactate, pyruvate, matrix metalloproteinase 9 and nitric oxide in women with migraine. A double blind, placebo, controlled randomized clinical trial. Europ J Integrat Med 2018;21:70-76.
[2] Sazali S, et al. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation for prophylaxis in adult patients with migraine-a meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2021;11(1):e039358.
[3] Zeng Z, et al. Efficacy of CoQ10 as supplementation for migraine: A meta-analysis. Acta Neurol Scand 2019;139(3):284-293.