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Co-Q10

Coenzyme Q10, abbreviated Co-Q10, is technically a Vitamin, and is a substance our body cannot produce. It must be consumed by means of our food. Small amounts of Co-Q10 may be synthesized in our bodies, but it is a small amount compared to our daily needs.

The largest concentration of Co-Q10 is in the heart, followed by the liver, kidney, spleen, and pancreas. It is also prevalent in every cell in the body, hence the alternate name, "ubiquinone" meaning it is found everywhere in the body. Co-Q10 also contributes to the flexibility of cells.

Cells that contain an extra molecule of oxygen are called "free radicals." Since they are out of balance, they seek other molecules from neighboring cells to bring them back into balance, creating a "scavenger" effect. The scavenged cell then becomes a free radical, and so the cycle continues. These are recognized as "foreign" by the body and the immune system will attack them and try to remove them from the body. Over time, the immune system begins to weaken so there is a double problem. More free radicals and a weakened immune system create "double jeopardy." This also produces a ripe environment for other diseases since the immune system is unable to cope with other viruses and bacteria.

Co-Q10 functions as an antioxidant. Antioxidants fight free radicals by balancing the free radical molecule without becoming a free radical themselves.

To prevent deficiencies, supplementation with Co-Q10 is important to bolster the immune system. Co-Q10 has been well researched and has been shown to be as effective as the alpha-tocopherol antioxidant, one of the strongest available.

Many physicians are advising their patients to supplement with Co-Q10. Because of its effect on energy, it has been called a "spark plug" for every cell in the body.

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