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The ABCs of Co-Q10
Co-Q10 is essential for energy generation and antioxidant protection. It is made in the body and concentrated in mitochondria. Co-Q10 levels decrease with age, which may most affect the mitochondria-rich heart, brain and muscles. Reduced Co-Q10 levels due to aging as well as some disease conditions may be overcome by supplementation. Older animals receiving Co-Q10 show increased levels in their blood and brain, and Co-Q10 supplements may help humans in the same way. Clinical studies show that Co-Q10 improves some forms of heart disease and may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases in humans, as it does in animals.
Co-Q10 is present in all foods we eat. Rich dietary sources include almonds, ocean salmon, sardines, spinach and meat--especially organs and muscle that contain high levels of mitochondria such as heart and other muscles. --CB
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