Submitted by: D. Thomas Webb
Many seem to be looking for some definitive information on CoQ10 and statins, the most popular therapy for lowering our cholesterol levels. Unfortunately, information coming from the medical community points to bad news for those taking statins to keep their cholesterol levels in check.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is synthesized naturally in your body and is found in every cell. It plays a key role in the
mitochondria,
the part of a cell that produces energy. Without that energy, your cells would perish.
Much of the information available today indicate that low CoQ10 levels are a
side effect
of taking a statin drug. This is entirely incorrect.
Cholesterol is synthesized from the same substance as CoQ10
(mevalonate)
. Statin drugs are designed to act on your body’s synthesis of mevalonate to limit the production of cholesterol. Unfortunately, this will necessarily limit the synthesis of CoQ10, as well. Some studies have indicated that taking statins can decrease CoQ10 levels by as much as forty percent, but not as a side effect.
What does that mean for people that take one of the many statin drugs?
Many in the medical community think that CoQ10 plays a valuable roll in your heart’s operation. It is believed to ease high blood pressure, regulate heart rhythm, and lower chest pain and raise exercise toleration in angina patients.
People suffering heart failure have been found to have lower levels of CoQ10 in heart muscle cells. CoQ10 is thought to increase energy production in the heart muscle, increasing the strength of the pumping action. A low CoQ10 level doesn’t
cause
heart failure, but higher levels of the enzyme in heart muscle cells may decrease the incidence or severity of the condition.
In your brain, CoQ10 levels begin decreasing at age 20. Lowest levels are found in those that have suffered a stroke. Additionally, people suffering from Parkinson’s show a lower than normal level of CoQ10. Research has indicated that increasing the enzyme may increase the level of the neurotransmitter
dopamine,
which appears to be lowered in those with the disease. Additionally, it has been suggested that CoQ10 may protect brain cells from free radical damage.
The enzyme may be used in a number of other areas, including diabetes and migraines. All evidence of it’s effects on these conditions is anecdotal, but many swear by the results.
To date, no
definitive
studies have been done on the true effects of statins on CoQ10 levels. Some smaller studies, however, have shown a striking correlation.
A study at Columbia University found that taking 80 milligrams of a statin drug for 30 days cut CoQ10 levels in half. Kanazawa University researchers in Japan found that even low doses of statins (10 milligrams per day) given over 8 weeks lowered CoQ10 levels by forty percent. Some are now beginning to wonder if the benefits from statin drugs (lower cholesterol) are worth it’s apparent negative effects on CoQ10 levels.
These studies were small, and small studies are not regarded as definitive in the medical community. If, however, you are taking a statin drug to control your cholesterol level, staying current on any future developments in the discussions of CoQ10 and statins is in your interest.
About the Author: In the meantime, you may want to consider a CoQ10 supplement. However, before you
buy CoQ10
, you may want to read our thoughts on the matter. All supplements are not created equal!
remedyscribe.com/buy-coq10/
Source:
isnare.com
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