CoQ10 stands for Coenzyme Q10, which is also known as ubiquinone or ubiquinol. This substance, a compound that is similar to vitamins, plays a vital role in several biological processes such as protein production and muscle contraction.
As an antioxidant, it helps fight free radicals by destroying compounds that cause damage to the body’s cells. It was first identified by researchers at the University of Wisconsin in 1957.
How Does This Compound Work?
Cells thrive on energy in order to perform their functions. This energy is sourced from fats, amino acids and sugars. The part of the cell that processes these sources is called the mitochondrion (plural: mitochondria). CoQ10 is naturally present in mitochondria and plays a major role in the metabolism of energy.
It is carried through the bloodstream by lipoproteins. When lipoproteins are oxidized, CoQ10 is depleted. In healthy amounts, it can potentially reduce the formation of plaques in the arteries. The organs in the body which have high concentrations of this substance are the liver, heart and kidneys.
Its Role in the Treatment and Management of Diabetes
This substance is not the new miracle supplement that may lead to the treatment of diabetes, but it is being considered for its potential in helping improve heart conditions and blood pressure and regulate high cholesterol. This makes it promising for individuals with diabetes especially those who have risks of developing hypertension and heart disease. One study even showed that it reduced the likelihood that patients who have had a previous heart attack would again suffer from heart attacks later.
Its antioxidant properties also help scavenge destructive free radicals to keep cells young and robust. Free radicals not only contribute to the process of aging, they also lead to the development of certain health problems, including cancer and health disease. Antioxidants contribute to keeping the body of a diabetic healthy because they also help boost the immune system.
It may also help regulate blood sugar levels because when taken in controlled amounts, it has been shown to improve the functions of the cells that line the blood vessels. There was some concern, though, that this might lead to hypoglycemia, a condition characterized by a sudden decrease in blood sugar. However, two studies indicated that diabetics who took this supplement twice a day showed no signs of hypoglycemia, which might indicate that it is safe to use for people with diabetes.
Other Benefits
CoQ10 appears to improve the immune functions in people who have problems with their immune systems and those who suffer chronic infections. It also seems to help increase energy and reduce feelings of fatigue, something that people with diabetes can benefit from as they are usually generally tired. It may even reduce damage that result from stroke.
Sources of the Supplement
CoQ10 can be found in food sources, such as whole grains, oily fish, seafood and organ meats, although these foods contain only small amounts. For diabetes patients, it is often taken as a supplement in tablet or capsule form.
Side Effects
Although this supplement is considered generally safe for consumption by adults, it may have certain side effects and risks, something that people with diabetes should know about. It may cause certain adverse reactions in some people, such as nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, heartburn and loss of appetite.
It may also affect how certain medicines work, such as those used for chemotherapy and hypertension. This makes it necessary that any diabetic individual taking the supplement should be supervised and monitored by a health-care provider. It is still not known how it will affect pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Limitations of Its Use in Diabetes
There are only a few studies involving the use of this compound as a supplement and most of them are focused on its uses and benefits to people with cardiovascular diseases and hypertension. It has been evaluated for use with diabetes but researchers admit more research and studies have to be done in order to confirm its real clinical role in people who have diabetes.
If you’re a diabetic considering taking CoQ10 as a supplement, talk to your doctor or health-care provider to discuss if it is the right choice for you.