CoQ10

CoQ10 (Co-enzyme Q10) is a ubiquitous compound found within the membranes of nearly every cell in the human body. It has a vital role in energy production, carrying electrons within the mitochondria as part of the production chain of the energy transporter ATP. Once reduced to ubiquinol, it is the body’s primary lipid-soluble antioxidant (1). Amounts of CoQ10 in the diet are modest and generally considered insufficient to significantly raise tissue concentrations, especially when compared to typical therapeutic doses of 100mg or more (2). This means that supplementation is an important way to optimise energy and concentration.

There is very robust evidence for CoQ10’s role in increasing vitality. A meta-analysis of 13 randomised controlled trials has demonstrated significant reduction in fatigue symptoms across different populations (3). The high quality of evidence demonstrated in this systematic review underlines the powerful nootropic properties of CoQ10.

A 2023 study has demonstrated correlation between plasma CoQ10 levels and improved formally-assessed cognitive performance in healthy older adults (4). As a supplement in multiple formulations, it has been demonstrated to lead to a significant reduction in mistakes on a concentration and stress test (5).

CoQ10 supplementation has an exceptionally strong established safety profile. It is generally considered safe and remarkably well-tolerated by most individuals, even when consumed at very high doses (6).