Medically reviewed by Dr. Reina Punj, MBBS, PG Diploma in Endocrinology (University of South Wales), Lead Physician, Excelgenics Clinical Panel.
Ageing Begins at the Cellular Level
Tiredness, slower recovery, changes in skin texture: ageing shows on the outside, but many of the underlying processes happen inside cells.
Two of the most studied are changes in mitochondrial efficiency and cumulative oxidative stress. Both involve coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a fat-soluble compound that acts as an electron carrier in energy production and as an antioxidant within cell membranes.
Why CoQ10 Levels Change With Age
The body makes its own CoQ10. Studies of human tissues have found lower CoQ10 levels in several organs in older age groups. Lower levels may mean:
- Less CoQ10 available for cellular energy production
- Less CoQ10 available as a membrane antioxidant
- Greater reliance on the body's other antioxidant systems
This is part of normal ageing rather than a disease process. It is one reason why some adults over 40 consider CoQ10 as part of their nutrition.
CoQ10 as an Antioxidant
Within cell membranes, CoQ10:
- Acts as a fat-soluble antioxidant, helping to protect the fatty parts of cell membranes, where water-soluble antioxidants such as vitamin C are less active
- Helps regenerate vitamin E, another membrane antioxidant
- Is found in higher concentrations in tissues with high energy needs, such as the heart, kidneys, liver and muscle
CoQ10's dual role as electron carrier and antioxidant has been reviewed in detail (Littarru and Tiano, 2007). In the skin, laboratory and topical-application studies found that CoQ10 applied to the skin penetrated its outer layers and reduced markers of oxidation (Hoppe et al., 1999). That research used CoQ10 applied directly to the skin, not CoQ10 taken by mouth.
Why CoQHealth Is Formulated This Way
CoQ10 on its own is poorly absorbed. CoQHealth provides:
- 300 mg coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) per capsule
- 5 mg piperine per capsule, included to help absorption
- A plant-based capsule, taken once daily with a meal containing healthy fats
- Made under an FSSAI licence
In one small study, piperine modestly increased blood CoQ10 levels after three weeks (Badmaev et al., 2000). That finding has not been independently replicated.
What CoQHealth Is Formulated to Support
- Normal cellular energy production
- Antioxidant activity within cell membranes
- Everyday stamina as part of a balanced lifestyle
Who Might Consider It
- Adults over 35 wanting nutritional support for healthy ageing
- Physically active people with high energy demands
- Adults whose doctor has suggested CoQ10 supplementation
Safety and Interactions
CoQ10 is generally well tolerated, although mild digestive upset and trouble sleeping have been reported. CoQ10 may interact with the blood thinner warfarin and with insulin, and piperine can change how the body metabolises some medicines. If you take any prescription medication, including for cholesterol, consult your doctor before use.
Healthy Ageing From the Inside
Skincare works on the surface. Good nutrition, including CoQ10, can support the normal cellular processes underneath, such as energy production and antioxidant defence. It works best alongside sleep, activity and a balanced diet.
References
- Kalén A, Appelkvist EL, Dallner G. Age-related changes in the lipid compositions of rat and human tissues. Lipids. 1989;24(7):579–584. doi:10.1007/BF02535072
- Littarru GP, Tiano L. Bioenergetic and antioxidant properties of coenzyme Q10: recent developments. Molecular Biotechnology. 2007;37(1):31–37. doi:10.1007/s12033-007-0052-y
- Hoppe U, Bergemann J, Diembeck W, et al. Coenzyme Q10, a cutaneous antioxidant and energizer. BioFactors. 1999;9(2–4):371–378. doi:10.1002/biof.5520090238
- Badmaev V, Majeed M, Prakash L. Piperine derived from black pepper increases the plasma levels of coenzyme Q10 following oral supplementation. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry. 2000;11(2):109–113. doi:10.1016/S0955-2863(99)00074-1
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Food supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement, particularly if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a medical condition or take medication.
