Coenzyme Q10 is an essential compound in our bodies that produces energy. However, as people age they produce less and low levels are linked with cancer and heart disease. Coenzyme Q10 supplements may contain Coenzyme Q10.

Studies have suggested that taking high doses of CoQ10 could potentially prevent or treat certain types of cancer and other conditions; however, more research must be conducted in order to fully understand how well this works.

Researchers speculated that CoQ10 may help protect against certain cancers due to its antioxidant properties by neutralizing free radicals produced during radiation or chemotherapy treatments; however, in a mouse experiment that exposed them to radiation therapy alone, CoQ10 didn’t seem to prevent cancer cell damage at all.

Scientists consider food rich in CoQ10 the most effective way of increasing blood levels; however, food only offers limited sources of CoQ10. Organ meats and whole grains provide adequate amounts, though many individuals avoid these foods due to high levels of fat and cholesterol content.

Given CoQ10’s important role in mitochondrial bioenergetics, researchers have hypothesized that taking CoQ10 might enhance physical performance and endurance. Unfortunately, several small studies have not demonstrated any improvements to oxygen consumption or treadmill time until exhaustion.

Dietary supplements in the US are classified as food rather than drugs and thus don’t go through the same rigorous premarket evaluation and approval processes as drugs; however, the Food and Drug Administration can remove unsafe supplements from sale at its sole discretion.