Coenzyme Q10 and Treatment of Diabetes - How CoQ10 Can Help

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a substance that is naturally produced in our bodies, in nearly every cell. It helps our bodies convert food into energy and also acts as a powerful antioxidant. Currently there is no sufficient, scientific proof that Coenzyme Q10 and treatment of diabetes is beneficial in managing blood glucose levels. However, there is some evidence that the use of CoQ10 may help improve some of the other conditions or complications that are more common in people with type 2 diabetes.

CoQ10 and High Blood Pressure

There is a link between diabetes and hypertension. CoQ10 has been shown in some studies to lower blood pressure (both systolic and diastolic, the top and bottom numbers of the blood pressure reading).

CoQ10 and High Cholesterol

If you are diabetic, you are already at higher risk for heart disease, so it's important to keep cholesterol levels within normal range (or better). At this point there is no proof that CoQ10 really helps with cholesterol levels... but interestingly, the amount of CoQ10 is lower in people with high cholesterol. Some people take drugs called statins to lower cholesterol levels. Statins also lower the amounts of CoQ10 in our bodies, plus they can cause muscle pain as well. CoQ10 supplementation is thought to bring these CoQ10 levels back to normal as well as decrease muscle pain from the use of statins.

CoQ10 and Heart Problems

Diabetics are more prone to heart disease. Free radicals are organic molecules that cause aging and thought to damage health - including contributing to heart disease. Free radicals are present in pollution, cigarette smoke, pesticides and herbicides, and other substances. Coenzyme Q10, on the other hand, is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize the effects of free radicals, preventing damage or reducing their harmful effects.

CoQ10 and Glucose Control

No link has been firmly established between the use of CoQ10 and the management of blood glucose levels. It is thought to help lower blood sugar, but has not been scientifically proven at this time.

Coenzyme Q10 can be purchased as a supplement in a tablet or soft gel capsule form. It can also be found naturally in foods like meat and poultry, fatty fish like salmon and sardines, and in vegetable oil.

Coenzyme Q10 and treatment of diabetes blood sugar control hasn't been scientically established, but CoQ10 may help with other conditions. Always talk to your doctor first before starting any supplement, no matter how 'healthy' the supplement may seem. Supplements can affect the effectiveness of medications among other concerns. Remember that supplements are not a substitute for following a proper diabetes treatment plan that includes an appropriate diet, routine exercise, and medications as needed.