John Arts Abundant Living www.johnarts.co.nz

Without Co Enzyme Q10 we could not make the energy our bodies need. The chemical structure of CoQ10 allows it to shuttle hydrogen electrons within our cell mitochondria where energy is made. This is where CoQ10 collects electrons and moves them into an enzyme called ATP synthase to make the energy we need.

The special chemical structure of CoQ10 also means it acts as a potent antioxidant and has a critical role in protecting the cholesterol that circulates through our bloodstream. In particular, cholesterol can become trapped in our heart artery walls. If oxidised this changes into a dangerous form, triggering off a complex process that can result in artery-blocking plaques.

Last week we saw heard how statin medication can significantly reduce circulating CoQ10. Studies show even a low dose of 20mg of commonly prescribed statins can reduce circulating CoQ10 by 40 per cent. While I have no evidence, it is logical that in theory less CoQ10 could mean more oxidised cholesterol.

I prescribe CoQ10 for many reasons, but most commonly for statin support. I also add CoQ10 for people aged 50-plus who are fatigued without medical causes. I invariably include CoQ10 for those with cardiovascular, autoimmune and neurodegenerative diseases. For example, I include at least 100mg for those with Polymyalgia Rheumatica and higher doses for those with MS or Parkinson's.

Those with inflammatory conditions, especially autoimmune problems, should be working to a personalised diet and supplement plan complementary to their regular medical treatment. In addition to a good diet and base supplements I like to add CoQ10 with B vitamins, grape seed extract, resveratrol, curcumin and specialised ingredients including Alpha lipoic acid, N- acetylcysteine and Acetyl L carnitine. All these have a positive impact on cell energy and immune functions. Give me a call or email john@abundant.co.nz if you need more information. Join my full weekly newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz

John Arts is a qualified nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health. Contact John on 0800 423 559. To read more go to www.sunlive.co.nz