Coenzyme Q10: The Energizing Antioxidant
August 1, 2000
NEW YORK, N.Y. - Noted physician, author and nutrition authority, Dr. Erika Schwartz, MD, offers valuable insights on Coenzyme Q10 in a recently released, multi-page report.
As described, CoQ10 is synthesized in the body from the amino acid Tyrosine, with the help of vitamins and trace minerals. Although it is manufactured by every human body cell, not enough is produced to satisfy our daily needs. Neither can it be supplied adequately by foods such as organ meats, which contain the highest concentrations of CoQ10. Supplementation is the only practical way to fulfill the average person's daily requirement, estimated to be 90mg.
Coenzyme Q10 was discovered by Dr. Frederick Crane, a plant physiologist at the University of Wisconsin, in 1953. Utilizing specialized fermentation technology developed by Japanese manufacturers, cost-effective production of CoQ10 began in the mid-1960s. To this day, fermentation remains the dominant production method around the globe.
When first introduced, acceptance of CoQ10 by the medical community was limited, although Japanese scientists reported using a form of CoQ10 to treat congestive heart failure more than three decades ago. Today, over 6 million Japanese take the medicine.
With the discovery that CoQ10 was not only instrumental in energy production, but also an antioxidant, the compound began to attract extensive scientific attention in America and abroad. Antioxidants protect cells against damage from unstable molecules known as free radicals. Unchecked, free radicals can destroy all manner of cellular components and, over time, the body's entire immune system.
The proliferation of free radicals has been linked to cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer's, arthritis, and many other common ailments. Thus CoQ10's role as a treatment and preventive therapy is growing rapidly. Evidence points to its positive effect as a heart revitalizer, disease fighting supplement, neuro-degenerative inhibitor, natural energy booster, and skin, gum and anti-aging treatment, with perhaps greater potential still untapped.
In addition to her private practice and publishing enterprises, Dr. Erika Schwartz is a technical advisor to Kyowa Hakko USA, providing research and technical assistance on nutritional product development and applications. Contact us to obtain a copy of the complete report.