If you’ve ever wondered why some people seem to have endless energy while others struggle through the day, the answer often lies in the mitochondria, the tiny energy factories within our cells. These mitochondria rely heavily on Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10 (more specifically, its active, highly absorbable form Ubiquinol) to create ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the molecule that fuels every biological function, from muscle contraction and hormone production to brain activity and heart function.
Without optimal levels of CoQ10, the energy equation doesn’t add up.
So, what is CoQ10 and why is it so important?
CoQ10 is a fat-soluble compound found naturally in every cell of the body, with particularly high concentrations in energy-demanding organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Its essential role is to support mitochondrial energy production by enabling the conversion of nutrients into ATP, essentially acting as a spark plug in the body’s engine.
CoQ10 exists in two forms:
Ubiquinone – the oxidised form.
Ubiquinol – the reduced, active form that the body can use directly.
Both occur naturally in the body, but ubiquinol is the predominant form circulating in the bloodstream and the one most easily absorbed and utilised.
Alongside energy production, ubiquinol serves as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress (damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals). Oxidative stress contributes to inflammation, chronic illness, and accelerated ageing, making antioxidants crucial to long-term well-being.
Because organs like the heart and brain require constant, high-energy output, optimal CoQ10 levels are essential for maintaining their function. Research shows that supplementing with CoQ10 can:
- Improve symptoms of heart failure
- Support cardiovascular performance
- Reduce blood pressure
- Enhance overall heart health
- Reduce the frequency of migraine attacks by lowering CGRP levels
- Improve exercise tolerance and physical performance
In short, CoQ10 keeps the engines of the body running smoothly and efficiently.
Why supplement with CoQ10 — especially Ubiquinol?
Although the body produces CoQ10 naturally, several factors can significantly reduce levels, making supplementation extremely beneficial:
1. Ageing
CoQ10 levels peak around early adulthood before steadily declining. By age 40, your natural levels may be significantly reduced, impacting energy production and recovery and increasing oxidative stress.
2. Health conditions
- Lower levels of CoQ10 are commonly observed in people with:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Neurodegenerative conditions (such as Parkinson’s)
- Chronic fatigue
- Migraines
- Cancer
Supporting levels nutritionally can help protect cells, improve energy regulation, and support the body’s natural resilience.
3. Medications
Statins (drugs widely prescribed to lower cholesterol) can significantly reduce the body’s natural CoQ10 production. This can result in muscle pain, fatigue, and weakness. Supplementing with ubiquinol can counteract this depletion and support muscle and heart function.
4. Superior absorption and effectiveness
Ubiquinol is the most bioavailable form of CoQ10, meaning the body can absorb and use it more efficiently than ubiquinone. This makes it particularly valuable for:
- Adults over 40
- Individuals recovering from illness
- Those with digestive or absorption issues
- People taking statins
For meaningful clinical impact, form matters - and this is where Kaneka Ubiquinol® stands apart. Produced through a patented natural fermentation process, Kaneka is the world’s most researched and trusted source of ubiquinol, known for purity, stability, and superior absorption.
CoQ10 and Mitochondrial Health: the Foundation of Energy and Longevity
When mitochondria function efficiently, your body experiences:
- Better energy
- Faster recovery
- Sharper cognitive focus
- Improved physical performance
- Reduced inflammation
- Better cardiovascular resilience
- Longer healthy lifespan
When mitochondrial health declines, the effects are noticeable; fatigue, brain fog, breathlessness, muscle weakness, and increased susceptibility to illness.
By supporting mitochondrial efficiency and reducing oxidative damage, ubiquinol helps protect long-term health and performance at a cellular level. This is why CoQ10 is considered one of the most important supplements for healthy ageing and longevity.
Can’t we get CoQ10 from food?
Yes, foods such as oily fish, organ meats, and nuts contain CoQ10, but only in very small amounts. For context, you would need to eat pounds of sardines to match the amount in a single supplement. Diet alone is rarely enough to restore levels that have declined with age or health factors.
Supplementation ensures the body receives a consistent, meaningful dose that can actively support mitochondrial function and protect cellular health.
Barefoot Nutrition Advanced CoQ10 — with Kaneka Ubiquinol®
Barefoot Nutrition’s Advanced CoQ10 – Ubiquinol uses Kaneka Ubiquinol®. It is designed to support:
- Cardiovascular health
- Cellular energy production
- Healthy ageing
- Recovery and resilience
- Antioxidant protection
Ideal for adults over 40, athletes, those taking statins, or anyone seeking more sustainable energy. As always, our CoQ10 is made with care, free from artificial additives, encapsulated in natural pullulan, and packaged in glass with a compostable label. We prioritise bioavailability, meaning your body can absorb and benefit from the nutrients more effectively.
Energy isn’t just about motivation; it’s a biological process powered by your cells. When mitochondrial function is strong, you feel it. When it slows, your whole body struggles.
Supporting your mitochondria with a high-quality CoQ10 supplement, especially Kaneka Ubiquinol®, is one of the most effective ways to enhance vitality, protect long-term health, and age with strength.
For more information and for our full range of supplements, please visit our website.
https://barefootnutrition.co.uk
https://barefootnutrition.co.uk/pages/100-natural
https://www.kaneka-ubiquinol.com
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/ask-the-expert/coq10
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-coenzyme-q10/art-20362602
https://ro.co/supplements/coq10-foods/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531491/
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