What Is CoQ-10?

Coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ-10) is a vitamin-like nutrient that plays a key role in energy production in every cell; in the process, it collectively contributes to the body’s total energy levels. CoQ-10 also functions as an antioxidant and assists in protecting cells from free radical damage. Additionally, it helps support heart and brain health.

Ubiquinone is the chemical name for the most common supplemental form of CoQ-10. The body routinely converts ubiquinone to ubiquinol, the reduced form of CoQ-10 that is sometimes incorrectly referred to as the “active” form.

Both ubiquinone and ubiquinol are active and required for biochemical reactions within cells and play vital roles in energy production and heart health.

Some people cannot optimally convert ubiquinone to ubiquinol in their cell membranes for full antioxidant protection. They might prefer to supplement with ubiquinol because it can be easily assimilated since it does not require conversion.

- Source: Solgar