Coenzyme Q10
CoQ10 occurs naturally in the cells of many organisms where it affects energy and metabolism. Like many other metabolic processes, levels of CoQ10 diminish with age.
Coenzyme Q10 is especially important in heart function, supplying the energy necessary for the hear to efficiently circulate blood throughout the body.
Double-blind studies have been done that demonstrate that Coenzyme Q10 is effective in the treatment of certain cardivascular diseases such as congestive heart failure. Promising results have also demonstrated that CoQ10 is effective in treating Parkinson's disease, diabetes and migraine headaches.
Therapeutic doses for different diseases are still being determined. However, study results have have been so promising that the FDA has granted "orphan drug status" to CoQ10.
The best natural sources of CoQ10 are sardines, mackerel and organ meats; smaller amounts can be found in spinach, broccoli, nuts and eggs.