Ubiquinol enhances performance power
Date: 2014-05-23
Author: - Editor
Access: Public


Did you know as much as 96% of aerobically produced energy involves coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)? CoQ10 is crucial for the synthesis of adenodenetriphosphate (ATP) – the energy found in every cell in the body.

Although produced endogenously, several things such as statin use, intensive training and the ageing process can deplete production of CoQ10. When the body produces less of this vitamin- like substance, organs such as the heart and muscles may produce less energy, leading to symptoms such as fatigue and muscle weakness.

The active form of CoQ10 is called ubiquinol. A study published this year, in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Medicine, observed the effects of ubiquinol supplementation on the physical performance of young, elite athletes.

In the double-blind, placebo-controlled study 100 German athletes, both male and female, received either 300mg daily of ubiquinol or placebo for six weeks while training for the 2012 London Olympic Games.

Results were measured using a maximum power output test on a cycling ergometer. Athletes were tested before beginning supplementation, after three weeks and again after six weeks. Results demonstrated that ubiquinol supplementation significantly enhanced physical performance compared to placebo.

Whilst the placebo group did show an improvement as a result of the training regime, the enhancement of power production was greater in those who supplemented with ubiquinol.

Speak to your healthcare practitioner for more information about ubiquinol, the active form of CoQ10.

For more health articles, go to www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/articles

Reference
1. Alf D, Schmidt ME, Siebrecht SC. Ubiquinol supplementation enhances peak power production in trained athletes: a double-blind, placebo controlled study. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2013;10:24 doi:10.1186/1550-2783-10-24.