special subjects
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
Introduction
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10, ubiquinone) is an antioxidant, produced naturally in humans, that is also a cofactor for mitochondrialadenosinetriphosphate (ATP) generation. The levels of CoQ10 seem to be lower in older people and in people with chronic diseases, such as cardiac problems, cancer, Parkinson disease, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and muscular dystrophies. However, it is not known whether these low levels contribute to these disorders. Rich dietary sources are meat, fish, and vegetable oils. Most trials recommended that the supplement dose range between 100 and 300 mg/day (eg, 100 mg 3 times a day). (See also Overview of Dietary Supplements .) 