By Stephen T. Sinatra, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.A.C.N., C.N.S., C.B.T.
Arterial disease is the leading cause of death in the world, stoking heart attacks and stroke. Now, researchers in China believe they have discovered a hitherto unknown action of a popular nutritional supplement that can potentially put a major dent in cardiovascular disease. The supplement is CoQ10, something I have been recommending to my patients for more than thirty years.
The new discovery relates to the action of certain “micro RNAs,” fascinating molecules involved in the regulation of gene expression and metabolism. In this case, the Chinese researchers found that supplemental CoQ10 “profoundly” and “significantly” improved the actions of micro RNAs that take part in cholesterol efflux, that is, the ability of HDL to remove oxidized cholesterol from arterial walls. The findings show that CoQ10 promotes removal and represents a promising new avenue for atherosclerosis prevention and treatment.
My Viewpoint: CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant compound that serves as an essential ingredient for cellular energy and is gobbled up by diseased, energy-starved heart tissue. I hadn’t been aware, until I read this study, that CoQ10 could also promote the extraction of oxidized cholesterol from arterial walls. CoQ10 is produced in the body but is also available as a nutritional supplement, which I have prescribed with phenomenal results.
What this Means to You: If you can promote the removal of oxidized cholesterol from arterial walls you are striking a big blow against cardiovascular disease. Basically, cholesterol isn’t really a problem, as I have written in The Great Cholesterol Myth, until it becomes oxidized. Smoking, and the consumption of oxidize-prone polyunsaturated vegetable oils in cooking, as well as eating trans fats, can lead to a buildup of damaged cholesterol particles, and subsequent inflammation and plaque. This new finding makes CoQ10 an even more important tool, both for prevention and treatment.
Recommendation: For prevention take 50-100 milligrams of CoQ10 daily with a meal. If you have a diagnosed cardiovascular condition, take 100-200 milligrams; for heart failure, 200-400. Over the age of 40, every adult should supplement as that’s when the body’s own natural CoQ10 production starts to drop off. Start with 50 milligrams and increase with age. Pharmaceutical drugs also deplete the body. A prime example: statin drugs for lowering cholesterol. You must take CoQ10 if you take a statin. For more information on the amazing power of CoQ10, read this article as well as others on my website. You’ll understand why CoQ10 is my No. 1 healing supplement.
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