Power Up Your Cells: Finding the Best CoQ10 Supplement

TL;DR: My quest for sustained energy led me down the Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) rabbit hole, and what I found wasn't a miracle, but a fascinating way to boost cellular energy and fight off cell damage. Trying to pinpoint the best CoQ10 supplements was the best thing I could do for my heart and brain!

Ever feel like you're Sisyphus? You know… fighting an eternal uphill battle against fatigue? My quest for the ultimate natural energy source made me wonder, what is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)? Is this naturally occurring compound just another trend? I knew it was essential for cellular energy and a powerful antioxidant, but I was curious about other potential CoQ10 benefits. 

While research does show that CoQ10 can reduce fatigue symptoms, I needed more IRL answers! So, I set off to find the best CoQ10 supplement, exploring everything from dosage to the differences between ubiquinol vs ubiquinone.

» Losing the fight against fatigue? Check out Cordyceps Mushrooms for Energy

What is CoQ10?

CoQ10 is a naturally occurring coenzyme. It’s vital for energy production in our cells' mitochondria, or the cell’s powerhouse. CoQ10 is also a potent antioxidant that you can find in the following foods:

• Fatty fish (salmon, tuna)
• Organ meats (ox or chicken livers)
• Whole grains (brown rice, oats)

CoQ10 Benefits I Experienced

My personal journey into the world of CoQ10 supplements wasn't just about chasing more pep in my step. I was curious about the broader CoQ10 benefits everyone was talking about. Here's what I noticed:

• Cellular Energy: What struck me most was the consistent energy I felt. CoQ10 is truly essential for the creation of Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), your cells' primary fuel.
• Antioxidant Defense: CoQ10 supplements work to neutralize those damaging free radicals, protecting cells and supporting healthy energy metabolism.
• Mitochondrial Support: It's like CoQ10 helps keep your mitochondria running smoothly. This function contributed to my overall vitality.
• Heart Health: While I can't measure this directly, the research suggesting CoQ10 benefits cardiovascular health, like supporting heart muscle function and healthy blood pressure, was reassuring.
• Mental Clarity: There were days I felt a sharper mental edge. The antioxidant properties that protect brain cells might be at play here, hinting at neuroprotective CoQ10 benefits.
• Workout Recovery: By supporting energy and reducing oxidative stress, CoQ10 seems to aid in physical endurance and recovery.
• Strong Foundation for Healthy Aging: Thinking long-term, maintaining optimal CoQ10 benefits feels like a proactive step in counteracting the natural decline that comes with age.

What Does CoQ10 Do for Fertility?

Emerging research suggests CoQ10 might play a role in supporting fertility for both men and women:‍

* CoQ10 for Fertility in Women

CoQ10 is one of the best prenatal vitamins because of its potential to improve egg quality, especially with age. 

* CoQ10 For Fertility in Men

Some studies indicate CoQ10 supplementation increases total sperm count, including motility and concentration. ‍

My CoQ10 Supplement Test: A Week of Cellular Energy

‍

Compared to other energy-boosting methods I've explored, could these supplements truly deliver sustainable vitality? I decided to put it to the test for you (a somewhat risky endeavor for my energy levels and productivity!). 

For one week, I consistently incorporated the best CoQ10 supplements into my daily routine to observe the effects. Here's my honest take:

Does CoQ10 Help With Energy? 

Ummm….yes! Similar to the sustained energy described with other natural supplements like shilahit or ashwagandha, the lift I experienced from consistently taking the best CoQ10 supplements was clean and enduring.

It lasted for a significant portion of the day without the sharp peaks and subsequent crashes associated with stimulants. It felt like a reliable source of cellular energy support.

Who Are CoQ10 Supplements Ideal For? 

In my experience, CoQ10 supplements are great for anyone looking for a natural way to support:

• Sustained energy levels
• Antioxidant defense
• Overall cellular health
• Fertility (as mentioned above)

Finding the Right CoQ10 Dosage: How Many mg of CoQ10 Should I Take?

Determining the optimal mg of CoQ10 to take can vary based on individual needs, health conditions, and the specific reason for supplementation. Common dosages range from 30 mg to CoQ10 600 mg per day. For general health and energy support, lower doses (30-100 mg) are often sufficient. 

Higher doses might be recommended for specific conditions like heart health or to address potential CoQ10 deficiency symptoms. It's crucial to start with a lower dose and gradually increase if needed, while always consulting with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate dosage for your circumstances.

However, it’s understanding the difference between ubiquinol vs ubiquinone that will really 

help you decide which is the best CoQ10 supplement for your specific needs.

Ubiquinol vs Ubiquinone

When I started getting into CoQ10 supplements, I encountered two main forms of CoQ10: 

Ubiquinone 

Ubiquinone is the oxidized form and is the more common and often less expensive version found in supplements. Your body can naturally convert ubiquinone into ubiquinol.

Ubiquinol

On the other hand, Ubiquinol is the reduced, active antioxidant form of CoQ10. It's often marketed as having superior bioavailability, meaning it might be absorbed more effectively by the body. It’s particularly great for older folks or people with the following health conditions (See risks section for more).

» Need a clean boost? Explore the Best Shilajit Gummies for Natural All-Day Energy

Pros and Cons 

The 7 Best CoQ10 Supplements: My Honest Review

Below are my top seven picks for the best CoQ10 supplements:

LIVEGIS CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)

I’ve been using the LIVEGIS CoQ10 for a while now, and it’s been a solid choice for my energy levels. It uses ubiquinone CoQ10, which my body still has to convert, but it’s great if you’re looking for a basic, affordable option. I didn’t really notice any CoQ10 side effects with my liver or anything, but I always recommend checking with your doctor if you’re on meds like ezetimibe.

Price:
Get in on: Amazon

aSquared Nutrition CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)

‍

This aSquared CoQ10 is pretty strong. It’s 600 mg per serving, so definitely higher than most. If you’re wondering, “How many mg of CoQ10 should I take?”, it really depends, but this feels like a good option if you need extra support, especially for stuff like male fertility supplements. Just know that bigger doses can sometimes cause mild side effects.

Price: $39.99 (200 Capsules)
Get in on: Amazon

Nature's Lab CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)

‍

I like Nature’s Lab because it feels a little easier on my stomach than other brands. It’s standard ubiquinone CoQ10, so it’s not the active form, but it still gave me a noticeable boost in my energy and focus. Definitely something to consider if you're thinking about what is CoQ10 and what does it do for your overall health.

Price: $19.99 (60 Vegetarian Capsules)
Get in on: Amazon

ForestLeaf CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)

‍

ForestLeaf feels like a super clean and simple option. We took it mostly to support heart health and energy, and honestly, it just fit really easily into my routine. If you’re worried about CoQ10 side effects or interactions with meds, always a good idea to double-check with your doctor.

Price: $21.95 (90 Capsules)
Get in on: Amazon

ShinyLeaf CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)

‍

What I like about ShinyLeaf is that they add Omega-3s to the mix, so it’s like a two-for-one deal for your heart. It also made me curious about CoQ10 benefits for fertility, because (as mentioned above) there’s growing research about CoQ10 helping with sperm and egg health. Heads up, if you’re on ezetimibe, you’ll want to run it by your doctor first.

Price: $19.94 (90 Chewable Tablets)
Get in on: Amazon

Quality of Life Ubiquinol QH (Ubiquinol)

This one’s a little fancier because it uses ubiquinol, the active form of CoQ10, so your body doesn't have to convert it. I honestly felt a bigger energy boost with this one, especially since I’m on the tail end of 30 and starting to think about supplements that actually absorb better. It’s also completely vegan.

Price: $29.96 (60 Vegicaps)
Get in on: Amazon

Besibest CoQ10 (Ubiquinol)

‍

Besibest gives you a crazy good value, about 600 mg of CoQ10 in each serving. I started using it when I was looking into CoQ10 for PCOS and fertility support, and while it’s a bit of a higher dose, I didn’t have any major issues. Just keep in mind, if you're asking “how much CoQ10 should I take for fertility”, it's worth checking with a doctor before going this high.

Price: $36.99 (120 Capsules)
Get in on: Amazon‍

Sustainability Snapshot

Risks: Who Needs to Exercise Caution with CoQ10?

While the best CoQ10 supplements are generally safe, it’s good to be aware of some interactions and tread lightly. 

What Medications Shouldn’t Be Taken with CoQ10?

Blood thinners like warfarin are a key concern due to potential interaction. Also, be aware of possible interactions with medications used to lower cholesterol, such as ezetimibe (which reduces cholesterol absorption) and statin medications (which reduce cholesterol production).  

Note: Always consult your healthcare provider about potential medication interactions. While Coq10 side effects on the liver are rare, their not nonexistent. 

CoQ10 and Chronic Diseases

Some diseases have been associated with altered CoQ10 levels. So, it might be best to consult your doctor before taking CoQ10 supplements if you have any of the following conditions:

• Diabetes
• Heart Failure
• Parkinson's Disease
• Alzheimer's Disease
• Fibromyalgia
• Genetic Mitochondrial Disorders

» Can’t do CoQ10? Try Sea Moss: The Ocean’s Secret to Vibrant Health

Running Up That Hill: Taking CoQ10 Supplements to the Top

After tumbling down the CoQ10 supplement rabbit hole in my quest to finally stop feeling like Sisyphus pushing that tired old boulder of exhaustion, did I find a way to run up that hill?

First off…yes, that is a Kate Bush reference. Second, CoQ10 gives you a steadier, cellular-level energy boost instead of that jittery caffeine rush. Plus, those antioxidant perks are a nice bonus for your climb to the top. So, if you're curious to see whether CoQ10 supplements can help you conquer your own energy hill, it's a good idea to have a chat with your doctor first.

And to get the ball rolling, I recommend starting with a brand like Quality of Life, which offers high-quality ubiquinol, the active form of CoQ10 that's easier for your body to absorb and use.

FAQs

What happens when you start taking CoQ10?‍

CoQ10 helps support cellular energy production. Many people report improved energy levels, reduced fatigue, and better recovery after exercise within a few weeks of consistent use.

What vitamins should I not take with CoQ10?

CoQ10 is generally safe with most vitamins. However, caution is advised when combining it with vitamin K or other supplements that affect blood clotting. Always consult a healthcare provider if you are taking medications like ezetimibe or blood thinners.

Does CoQ10 have side effects?

CoQ10 is usually well tolerated. Possible side effects include mild digestive issues, headaches, dizziness, or rare liver enzyme changes.

What are the symptoms of needing CoQ10?

Symptoms of low CoQ10 levels may include fatigue, muscle weakness, memory issues, and gum problems. CoQ10 deficiency can occur naturally with age or due to certain medications.

Is CoQ10 good for fatty liver?

Some research suggests CoQ10 may help reduce inflammation and improve liver enzyme levels in individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, more studies are needed.

Who cannot take CoQ10?

Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, have serious heart conditions, or are taking blood thinners or blood pressure medications should consult a healthcare provider before using CoQ10.