Which CoQ10 is Better?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a critical nutrient that plays a vital role in producing energy at the cellular level. It is naturally present in the human body, and its levels decline as we age. CoQ10 supplements are widely available in the market, and they are available in two forms – Ubiquinone and Ubiquinol. Many consumers are confused about which form to choose and which is better for their health.
UBIQUINONE
Ubiquinone is the oxidized form of CoQ10 and is converted to the reduced form, Ubiquinol, in the body. Many CoQ10 supplements contain the Ubiquinone form because it is easier and cheaper to produce, and it has been studied more extensively than Ubiquinol. However, research indicates that Ubiquinol has several advantages over Ubiquinone.
Studies have found that Ubiquinol is more readily absorbed by the body. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in healthy individuals found that Ubiquinol was absorbed more efficiently than Ubiquinone. The researchers observed that the peak plasma concentration of CoQ10 was 4 times higher with Ubiquinol than with Ubiquinone. This means that your body may be able to utilize Ubiquinol more effectively than Ubiquinone.
UBIQUINOL
Ubiquinol has been shown to have greater antioxidant activity than Ubiquinone. Antioxidants are compounds that protect cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Free radicals can damage cells, DNA, and contribute to several chronic diseases. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, reducing their harmful effects. One study found that Ubiquinol was more effective in protecting cells from oxidative stress than Ubiquinone.
A randomized, controlled clinical trial in individuals with heart failure found that Ubiquinol supplementation improved cardiovascular outcomes more than Ubiquinone supplementation. The participants who took Ubiquinol experienced a reduction in hospitalizations and improved heart function.
While both forms of CoQ10 are beneficial, scientific studies suggest that Ubiquinol is superior to Ubiquinone due to its enhanced absorption, superior antioxidant activity, and potential health benefits for certain conditions. This is why we use Ubiquinol in our CoQ10 Plus Gummy for Oxidative Stress, Muscle Support, & Cell and Heart Support.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Meredith Warner is the creator of Well Theory and The Healing Sole. She is a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Air Force Veteran.
She is on a mission to disrupt traditional medicine practices and promote betterment physically, spiritually and mentally to many more people. She advocates for wellness and functional health over big pharma so more people can age vibrantly with more function and less pain.
At Well Theory, Our surgeon-designed products are FDA Registered and formulated to help people:
- Manage the symptoms of musculoskeletal pain
- Recover vibrantly from orthopedic related surgeries
- Fill the gaps in our daily diets
- Manage pain associated with inflammation