Every cell in your body requires energy to function. This energy is called adenosine triphosphate (ATP). It is made in the mitochondria of your cells by a protein called ATP synthase. Much like a water or windmill, this protein spins around when there is a high concentration of electrons around it. As electrons flow through ATP synthase, it attaches a phosphate group to ADP to make ATP (energy). Where do these electrons come from? Our food!

When food is metabolized, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are turned into acetyl CoA. This compound can enter the Krebs cycle to generate electrons. The electrons are delivered to the mitochondrial membrane by NADH and FADH2. Embedded in the inner membrane of mitochondria are four protein complexes. Collectively, these make up the Electron Transport Chain (ETC).

The job of the ETC is to take the electrons generated from food and create a constant flow of electrons for ATP synthase. The end result is the creation of over 90 percent of your body’s energy in the form of ATP. The first two complexes accept electrons and pass them on to an important nutrient called Coenzyme Q (CoQ). This coenzyme readily accepts the electrons and passes them onto the third complex in the ETC. After a few more steps, the enzyme ATP synthase completes the generation of ATP with the help of the electrons that CoQ10 delivered. Without CoQ, this entire process is not possible. CoQ10 is the supplemental form of CoQ.^†

Certain medications are known to block the body's ability to make CoQ. Perhaps that’s why side effects such as weakness and muscle pain are listed on many statin labels. When levels of CoQ get too low, risk of fatigue, neuropathies, muscle pain, and exercise-induced complications may increase. Muscles and nerves need energy to function normally. The electron transport chain requires CoQ to produce energy in nerves, muscles, and nearly every cell of the body.^†

Coenzyme Q10 supplementation provides your body with CoQ. CoQ10 has powerful fat-soluble antioxidant properties. It can assist in protecting the cells health and normal response to oxidative stress, especially arteries and vessels, thereby supporting optimal heart health. CoQ10 works as an antioxidant by donating its electrons to stabilize reactive oxygen species (ROS) like superoxide that can damage the fragile mitochondria. Because the cells of the heart contain a higher concentration of mitochondria, they have higher ATP requirements. Supporting healthy antioxidant status and cardiovascular function are two of the many beneficial effects of CoQ10 supplementation.^†

Due to its fat-solubility and large molecular weight, CoQ10 can be very difficult for the body to absorb. While many forms of CoQ10 claim ‘enhanced bioavailability,’ these claims may not be true across the board.

Optimal CoQ10 provides CoQ10 as HydroQSorb^® CoQ10. Clinical trials have found this form of CoQ10 offers truly superior absorption. Experience the difference that truly enhanced bioavailability can make with Optimal CoQ10 by Seeking Health.^†