Since its introduction by Kaneka Nutrients in 2007, Ubiquinol has been on the rise as an alternative to conventional CoQ10 supplements. Read on to learn about the differences between CoQ10 and Ubiquinol.
Put simply, CoQ10 is like the spark that drives the energy-producing action of the body's mitochondria. Ubiquinol is found in every cell of the body, and it is known to protect against oxidative stress (a prime result of excess free radicals—and possible catalyst for—premature aging). It also helps promote and maintain healthy levels of cellular energy production. But how else does CoQ10 benefit health, and how does Ubiquinol differ from conventional CoQ10 supplements? Here are 11 facts you may not know about CoQ10 and Ubiquinol.
1. CoQ10 exists in three forms.
CoQ10 is produced naturally in the body and exists in three ever-shifting states (also known as redox states). The shift occurs when the molecule gains or loses electrons. The three forms of CoQ10 are:
- Ubiquinone (CoQ10) — fully oxidized
- Ubisemiquinone — partially oxidized
- Ubiquinol — fully reduced, non-oxidized and the active antioxidant form of the nutrient
2. Ubiquinol is more bioavailable than CoQ10
Just as a square is a rectangle, but not every rectangle is a square, Ubiquinol is always CoQ10, but not every form of CoQ10 is Ubiquinol. Structurally, Ubiquinol is converted from CoQ10 by the addition of two electrons. This seemingly small addition of electrons makes Ubiquinol more polar than Ubiquinone, which may be a mechanism for the greater absorption of Ubiquinol observed in clinical trials.
3. In healthy cells, the predominant form of CoQ10 is Ubiquinol-
The conversion of CoQ10 (Ubiquinone) into Ubiquinol is a natural process that our bodies perform. In fact, the body must convert Ubiquinone into Ubiquinol before it can perform antioxidant functions. That's why, during a healthy state, the vast majority of CoQ10 in the human body is in the form of Ubiquinol. A few factors, however, can compromise the body's ability to transform CoQ10 into Ubiquinol. These factors include aging, oxidative stress, genetic polymorphisms, and certain medications and health-related conditions.
4. Ubiquinol is the only form of CoQ10 that exists as an antioxidant
Only the Ubiquinol form of CoQ10 acts as an antioxidant, which is a molecule that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules. While oxygen is vital for life, under certain conditions, it can become a reactive oxygen species which can result in cellular deterioration and cell death. Reactive oxygen species, also known as “free radicals”, are unstable molecules that can become highly reactive and damage healthy cells. Ubiquinol helps protect against this occurrence by "mopping up" free radicals.
5. Ubiquinol is the only known lipid-soluble antioxidant synthesized in the body
Lipid solubility refers to the affinity of a molecule to become dissolved in lipids which are fats or fat-like molecules. For instance, the inner mitochondrial membrane is a lipid layer, and a site where Ubiquinol is active. While Vitamin E is also a lipid soluble antioxidant that protects cells from free radical damage, Ubiquinol is more effective than Vitamin E in neutralizing free radicals and protecting against lipid peroxidation. . Ubiquinol has also been shown to have a sparing and regenerating effect on Vitamin E.
6. Ubiquinol promotes heart health
Ubiquinol supports cardiovascular health and is more absorbable than CoQ10—meaning when consumed in supplement form, it’s easier for ubiquinol to reach the blood. Furthermore, unlike CoQ10, the body doesn’t have to convert Ubiquinol before it can perform antioxidant functions. For individuals taking statins, CoQ10 levels may be reduced. Supplementing with Ubiquinol can help restore those levels.2,3
Read more: Statins & Ubiquinol
7. Kaneka Nutrients produces Ubiquinol that is bio-identical to the Ubiquinol found in the body
The active antioxidant form of Ubiquinol produced by Kaneka Nutrients and found in Ubiquinol supplements is molecularly the same—or bioidentical—to the nutrient produced in the body. Because of Ubiquinol's unique antioxidant and energetic properties, it is ideal for aging populations. For anyone over the age of 40, Ubiquinol is a good choice because the body’s ability to convert CoQ10 (Ubiquinone) into Ubiquinol may have begun to decline.
8. Is there a recommended amount or dosage of Ubiquinol to consume?
If you're wondering about the appropriate Ubiquinol dosage for you, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. They can advise on the right amount based on several factors, including your age, health status, lifestyle, and more. The typical recommended dosage for adults on Ubiquinol supplement labels is 100mg daily, but you may require more than that. For example, your healthcare practitioner may recommend starting with a higher dosage if you are taking statins and then adjust the amount over time based on your daily needs. Only your healthcare provider can advise you as to your individualized nutritional requirements.
9. When is the best time to take Ubiquinol?
The best time to take Ubiquinol is when it fits into your daily routine so you can be consistent. It’s generally recommended, however, to take Ubiquinol at mealtime to optimize absorption. If you take other supplements at a particular time of day, you can simply add Ubiquinol to your regimen. While Ubiquinol can be taken in the morning, afternoon, or night, some people have reported a difference in their sleep quality or ability to fall asleep when they take Ubiquinol at night. In this case, it’s best to take Ubiquinol earlier in the day, at breakfast or lunch, or at a time that fits into your routine. Always talk to your health care provider for individualized health and supplement recommendations, or if you have any questions or concerns about your health.
10. The name Ubiquinol comes from the word "ubiquitous."
The name Ubiquinol comes from the words "ubiquity" or "ubiquitous," both of which derive from the Greek term for "being everywhere at once." That's because Ubiquinol is everywhere in your body. Literally. Ubiquinol is found in every single cell in the human body. In fact, it's in nearly every cell, tissue, and organ in mammals.
11. Ubiquinol Clinical Research
As a science-driven company, Kaneka is continually investing in new research to deepen and expand the knowledge base about the health benefits of Ubiquinol. Kaneka supports ongoing Ubiquinol research which is currently focused on Preconception Health, Cardiovascular Health, and Healthy Aging.
References
1 Langsjoen PH and Langsjoen AM. Comparison study of plasma coenzyme Q10 levels in healthy subjects supplemented with ubiquinol versus ubiquinone
2 Fedacko J, Pella D, Fedackova P, Hänninen O, Tuomainen P, Jarcuska P, Lopuchovsky T, Jedlickova L, Merkovska L, Littarru GP. Coenzyme Q(10) and selenium in statin-associated myopathy treatment. Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 2013 Feb;91(2):165-70.
3 Zlatohlavek L, Vrablik M, Grauova B, Motykova E, Ceska R. The effect of coenzyme Q10 in statin myopathy. Neuro Endocrinol Lett. 2012;33 Suppl 2:98-101.
