Verified Buyer
Super products.
Coenzyme Q10, also known as Q10 for short, became widely known primarily through the cosmetics industry. However, it is important not only for our skin but for every single one of our approximately 37 trillion body cells. It is found in particular in the “powerhouses of the cells”—the mitochondria—where about 90% of our body’s total energy is produced. And this energy is needed for almost all processes in our body. Without energy, these processes cannot take place.
CoQ10 belongs to the group of vitaminoids, meaning it is a vitamin-like substance that the body—unlike vitamins—can produce on its own. Studies show, however, that the body’s own CoQ10 production declines steadily starting around age 20. In addition, factors such as stress, competitive sports, an unhealthy lifestyle, smoking, and the use of certain medications can accelerate this process. To specifically counteract a Q10 deficiency, taking a food supplement in addition to maintaining a healthy diet may be beneficial.
Q10 is found in all body cells—except red blood cells—and is primarily located in the mitochondria. This is where the energy essential for life is produced from food. Q10 is present in all organs, but those with high energy demands have a particularly high concentration of Q10.
These include, above all:
CoQ10 is also found in particularly high concentrations in membranes that surround the interior of cells and cell organelles. These membranes regulate, among other things, the exchange of substances such as sodium, potassium, and calcium ions, as well as the transmission of information. In this process, CoQ10—along with the equally valuable omega-3 fatty acids—plays a key role in determining the quality of the membranes.
Coenzyme Q10 occurs in our bodies in two biochemical forms: the oxidized form, ubiquinone—commonly referred to as coenzyme Q10—and the reduced form, ubiquinol. Both forms are found in all cells, especially in the mitochondria.
Initially, our body produces Q10 in the form of ubiquinone. During energy production, ubiquinone acts as a mobile transport molecule, transferring electrons from one protein complex to another and temporarily converting to ubiquinol in the process. After releasing the electron, it reverts to ubiquinone. This alternation between the two forms of Q10—ubiquinone and ubiquinol—occurs many times per second. Ubiquinone is thus the starting substance in this process.
In other parts of the cell, however, ubiquinol plays a key role and can effectively react with free radicals that can cause cellular damage. Although ubiquinol oxidizes to ubiquinone in this process, it can be converted back to ubiquinol with the help of three enzymes produced by the body and the two trace elements selenium and zinc.
A deficiency in CoQ10 can result from various factors, such as:
Studies also show that the body’s own production of CoQ10 in various organs declines continuously starting around age 20, as shown in the following figure.
To specifically prevent or counteract a CoQ10 deficiency—which can arise for various reasons—it makes sense to take a dietary supplement containing a suitable CoQ10 product.
Conventional CoQ10 (ubiquinone) in powder form inside a capsule is absorbed very poorly by the intestines—at most about 5 to 8 percent. This is due to its crystalline structure, its molecular size, and its properties as a fat-soluble substance.
However, if ubiquinone is encapsulated in a water-soluble, natural “shell,” it can be absorbed by the body much more effectively. This can be achieved, for example, by complexing it with cyclodextrins—special ring-shaped carbohydrates derived from plant starch. An innovative branded raw material in this context is CAVAQ10Ⓡ, which is 18 times more bioavailable than conventional Q10.
Furthermore, Q10 in its reduced form—that is, as ubiquinol—is better absorbed by the body than ubiquinone. However, ubiquinol is very sensitive to oxygen and easily oxidizes back to ubiquinone. For this reason, ubiquinol in Q10 products should always be protected from oxidation and thus remain stable. This is achieved in KanekaⓇ’s ubiquinol through microencapsulation(a natural coating), which results in 7 times better absorption.
Q10 is a cellular energy source and is essential for energy production in the mitochondria. It contributes to vitality, performance, and healthy cell membranes—especially in organs with high energy demands such as the heart, brain, and muscles. You’ll find it in high doses in Pro Q10 Spectrum.
Q10 is used to support energy metabolism, prevent fatigue, and protect cellular health. Supplementation is recommended because the body’s natural production of Q10 declines steadily starting at age 20.
Yes, Q10 can also support mental health. Because it promotes energy supply to nerve cells and has antioxidant properties, it can have a positive effect on concentration and mental resilience.
Ubiquinol is the active, reduced form of Q10 and is better absorbed by the body than ubiquinone. It also has particularly strong antioxidant properties and protects cells from free radicals. Pro Q10 Spectrum combines both forms—ubiquinone and ubiquinol.
The recommended dosage of coenzyme Q10 may vary depending on individual needs and health status. For general health support, a daily dose of 100 to 200 milligrams is often recommended.
However, there are situations in which the body’s need for it may increase. This is the case, for example, with stress, exercise, smoking, weight-loss diets, and when taking statins. Taking CoQ10 also makes sense as we age, since the body’s own production of the coenzyme begins to decline around the age of 20.
The best time to take coenzyme Q10 can vary and depends on individual preferences as well as the purpose of taking it. Many people prefer to take coenzyme Q10 in the morning or at lunchtime, as it can provide energy for the day. Coenzyme Q10 is also fat-soluble, so it is recommended to take it with a meal.
Coenzyme Q10 is associated with numerous health benefits, including:
Coenzyme Q10 is a fat-soluble, vitamin-like substance that our bodies can produce on their own and that is also obtained through diet. It is a crystalline substance that is odorless and tasteless and belongs to the ubiquinone family.
The duration of Q10 supplementation may vary depending on an individual's specific situation and health status. For general health support, a course of at least 3–4 months is usually recommended.
However, there is no maximum duration for taking Q10. It is therefore possible to take Q10 long-term to support your body.
Coenzyme Q10, also known as Q10 for short, occurs in the body in two different chemical forms: ubiquinone and ubiquinol. Both forms are needed by the body and can be converted into one another.