Free Radicals & Antioxidants

Is Co-enzyme Q10 a powerful antioxidant compound?

Co-enzyme Q10 is a fat soluble antioxidant, combating the attack of oxygen free radicals which can damage many components of the human cell. Co-enzyme Q10 is an integral part of the mitochondrial respiratory chain which produces energy in the cell.

Co-enzyme Q10 has an important role in regulating genes which in turn control energy production and other important functions in the cell. It is found in highest concentration in those organs and tissues with highest oxygen consumption such as the heart, brain and muscle.

Co-enzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a powerful antioxidant compound, due to its ability to transfer electrons in the human body, and also eliminate damaging free radicals that harm blood vessels. Co-enzyme Q10 is a nutrient found in human beings and animals and is also known by the names, Ubidecarenone, and ubiquinone.

The primary function of Co-enzyme Q10 is energy production and to help other bio-energetic processes within cells of the body. Co-enzyme Q10 was discovered in 1957 by Fred L. Crane, a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

What are Free Radicals?

Free radicals are produced by the human body to aid in the metabolic process of digestion and the conversion of food into energy. In most cases free radicals are quite helpful in many of the body’s natural functions. The problem arises when too many free radicals are produced, causing them to turn against you by becoming a dangerous enemy. Free radicals are the result of the oxidation process.

What are Antioxidants?

An antioxidant is a molecule capable of inhibiting the oxidation of other molecules. Oxidation is the process of changing a molecule into a free radical which can cause the damage to or the death of cells. This in turn can cause a chain reaction of damage and death on more cells. An antioxidant can inhibit this change reaction by removing the free radical intermediates. Antioxidants are known as reducing agents such as vitamins and enzymes.

There are many different types of antioxidants and so-called “free-radical scavengers”, which include:

• vitamins C and E

• beta carotene

• grape seed extract

• lycopene

• lutein and zeaxanthin

• polyphenols and catechins

To really take full advantage of the neutralizing qualities of antioxidants, we need to know how we can boost our supplies of these useful age-defying chemicals. Some people eat them, others swallow them in tablet form and others take them in the form of an injection. The best approach is to consume them in the food we eat. There are many foods that contain the antioxidants mentioned above. Unfortunately, most foods rich in antioxidants only supply a very small percentage of our daily requirements. We therefore need to supplement the intake of antioxidants with other nutrients. Super nutrient supplements like Co-enzyme Q10 are the most effective alternatives.