ASK THE PHARMACIST

 

Dear Pharmacist:
What is Ubiquinol?

Serafina Newton
Dallas, Texas

Pharmacist answer:

Ubiquinol is the reduced, active antioxidant form of Coenzyme Q10, (CoQ10). Produced naturally within healthy bodies, Ubiquinol is CoQ10 that has been converted (reduced) for use in the cellular energy production process. In addition to its critical role in energy production, it is the strongest lipid-soluble antioxidant available, protecting the body’s cells from oxidative stress which can cause damage to proteins, lipids and DNA.

 

Declines in ubiquinol result in less cellular energy and diminished protection against oxidative stress, which produces free radicals and can damage the body’s cells, including proteins, lipids and DNA. Ubiquinol provides a strong first stage defense against this cellular oxidative damage and needs to be replenished to maintain optimum health.

 

An increasing number of scientific reports indicate that dramatic decreases in ubiquinone levels and increased oxidative stress are associated with the ageing process and with many age-related conditions.

 

What are the health benefits associated with Ubiquinol?

For those individuals who cannot efficiently convert CoQ10 to ubiquinol, they will restore healthy levels of CoQ10 in plasma and organs foe more efficient energy production.  This should result in more energy and stamina as well as better overall health.  Additionally, because ubiquinol is an extremely powerful antioxidant, it offers a strong protective defense against oxidative stress and age-related conditions.

 

How do I know which form of CoQ10 is right for me?
For young, healthy individuals, ubiquinone should usually be sufficient for supplementation needs.  Healthy adults in their 20’s and 30’s can easily metabolize CoQ10 and convert it into ubiquinol; thus supplementing with CoQ10 will likely be the most efficient way to raise CoQ10 levels.

 

For Individuals who are 40+, ubiquinol is likely more beneficial since the body’s ability to produce CoQ10 and convert it into ubiquinol is diminished. Optimal ubiquinol levels are important to those looking to support cardiovascular, neurological and liver health.  Because ubiquinone is pre-converted, it is ready for immediate use by the body, making it ideal for those unable to efficiently reduce CoQ10 in the body.

 

How long will I have to take Ubiquinol before feeling the benefits?

Ubiquinol is not a quick fix for those looking for increased energy. Unlike caffeine or sugar which boost energy levels quickly and can cause a “crash” later, ubiquinol offers sustained natural energy.  Although each individual is different, it generally takes two to three weeks to restore optimal CoQ10 levels in the blood plasma and tissues, most people will begin feeling the effects as their individual plasma levels start to increase, generally around the fifth day.

 

Nature's SourceTM Ubiquinol Q-10 pharmaceutical grade tablets are available at any of our locations, or visit us online at naturessourcevitamins.com 

Check back next week with another answer to keep you & your family happy & healthy!