Ubiquinol

Ubiquinol vs Ubiquinone (Known as CoQ10)

The term CoQ10 is ambiguous as both ubiquinone and ubiquinol are forms of CoQ10. As ubiquinol has not been commercially available until 2006, ubiquinone has been labeled as CoQ10.

Ubiquinol is the reduced "antioxidant" form of Co Enzyme Q10 while ubiquinone is the oxidised form. In order to generate cellular energy ubiquinone must be converted to ubiquinol, this redox cycle is also critical for ubiquinol to act as an antioxidant and be recycled. The ubiquinone to ubiquinol process declines as we age, especially as we reach over the age of 50.

What’s the Relationship Between Ubiquinol and Ageing?

Our bodies own ability to produce ubiquinol declines as we age. The decline begins from around the age of 30 and our body’s production takes a sharp drop past the age of 50.

Our ability to convert ubiquinone back to ubiquinol is also thought to decline as we age, further leading to lowered ubiquinol levels. Inadequate levels of ubiquinol may lead to fatigue and oxidative stress due to ubiquinol’s critical role in cellular energy production and being the body’s only endogenous lipid soluble antioxidant.

Who is Ubiquinol Suitable For?

This supplement is most suitable for the over 50 crowd due to a decline in natural ubiquinol levels and conversion of ubiquinol to ubiquinol at this age. Ubiquinol may also be required for people suffering oxidative stress (due to ubiquinol being an antioxidant).

Finally ubiquinol is suitable for those on statin medications. This is due to statin medication lowering CoQ10 production within the body.

Why Haven’t I heard of Ubiquinol Before?

Ubiquinol has only been made commercially available since 2006 by Kaneka Nutrients LP. Until then the only way to raise ubiquinol levels was to supplement ubiquinone (commonly called coq10).

How Much Ubiquinol Should I Take?

It’s a difficult question as everyone’s needs are different. Generally those who are not suffering chronic oxidative stress and are over 50 will find 100-200mg sufficient. Those with particular health concerns may wish to increase the dosage.