Foods That Contain COQ10 and Why They Might Not Be Enough
Coenzyme Q10, commonly known as COQ10, is a powerful, fat-soluble molecule naturally present in the body. This molecule is popularly touted as a heart essential, but it does so much more. These include energy production, cellular function, potent antioxidant protection, etc. COQ10 is present in nearly every cell in the body, but can be depleted as one gets older. Stress and certain medications can also deplete COQ10 levels in your body.
While it is common to think that you should be getting enough CoQ10 from the food you eat, the question is, can food alone provide the amount your body truly needs? Let’s take a deeper look at the natural food sources of COQ10 and why relying on diet alone might not be a great idea to replenish your COQ10 levels.
What Does COQ10 Do in Your Body?
COQ10 supports your body in two major ways;
- It enables your cells to produce the energy currency of the cell called ATP. This provides fuel for almost everything you do
- COQ10 helps protect your cells from oxidative stress, which is one of the main essential functions of this powerful compound. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) with a low antioxidant defense mechanism to curtail the effects. ROS are active forms of oxygen needed for several cellular processes and in response to different stimuli. However, when they become excessively stimulated, ROS can overwhelm the antioxidant mechanism. Consequently, this can cause significant damage to your body.
Foods That Naturally Contain CoQ10
COQ10 is naturally present in certain animal and plant-based foods, though in different amounts. These foods include;
- Organ meats such as liver and heart
- Sardines and eggs
- Beef, chicken, and pork
- Peanuts, soybeans, and whole grains
Why Are Dietary Sources of COQ10 Not Enough?
Did you know that even the richest food sources of COQ10, in reality, contain far below the levels needed for impactful health benefits? This implies that even with a healthy diet, you might still struggle to get adequate levels of COQ10. This is due to the following reasons;
- Low absorption from food: COQ10 is fat-soluble, so it has to be taken with healthy fats, or it will be absorbed poorly from the body. Cooking and food processing also reduce their natural levels. This is because high heat and long cooking time degrade the compounds and affect the original quantity of nutrients gotten from the food.
- Interference of medication: Certain blood pressure medications can reduce your body’s natural COQ10 levels. This includes drugs for cholesterol control, such as statins. This implies that even if you eat food rich in COQ10, taking these drugs can deplete the levels of this antioxidant in your body.
- Modern dietary habits: Most foods are ultra-processed, which involves intense exposure to light and hot air. COQ10 is sensitive to heat, light, and oxidation. Hence, these foods do not have the amount of COQ10 it naturally has before it was processed.
Why You Should Supplement With COQ10?
Getting a high-quality supplement from NATURE’SFIELD COQ10 is an effective and reliable way to restore the required levels of this critical compound. This molecule improves your energy levels, supports healthy blood pressure, improves reproductive health, and so much more.
Also, muscle discomfort is common in people who take statin medication. This can be significantly improved with NATURE’SFIELD COQ10. Most notably, the antioxidant benefits of COQ10 are one of its most powerful features.  This is because it helps the body recover from oxidative stress, which can affect the mitochondria, reproductive health, accelerate aging, and worsen health conditions. This is how it improves fertility and a variety of health problems as it helps maintain energy levels, protects your heart, and supports overall wellbeing.
Although food like fish, organ meat, and soy products contain COQ10, the amounts are too low to meet the body’s needs. This is especially because age, stress, medication, and other factors continuously deplete your COQ10 levels, unknown to you. Therefore, supplementing is a highly effective way to unlock the complete benefits of this powerful antioxidant. This can make a meaningful difference in your energy levels, heart health, and overall wellness.
