11 Facts about CoQ10 & Ubiquinol: Dosages & Benefits

Fact #1: Molecules: CoQ10 exists in three forms Supplements: Kaneka Ubiquinol® Is More Bioavailable Than a Conventional CoQ10 Supplement Fact #2: Molecules: In the body, the predominant form of CoQ10 is ubiquinol Fact #3: Molecules: Ubiquinol is the only form of CoQ10 that exists as an antioxidant Fact #4: Molecules: Ubiquinol is the only known lipid-soluble antioxidant synthesized in the body Fact #5: Molecules: After age 40, the body doesn’t convert ubiquinone (CoQ10) into ubiquinol as efficiently Fact #6: Supplements: Ubiquinol Supports Cardiovascular and Heart Health Fact #7: Supplements: Kaneka Nutrients produces ubiquinol that is bio-identical Supplements: Ubiquinol Promotes Cellular Wellness and Healthy Aging Fact #8: As an antioxidant, ubiquinol promotes cellular energy and healthy aging What Is the Recommended Kaneka Ubiquinol® Supplement Dosage for Adults? Fact #9: Supplements: When is the best time to take ubiquinol? Fact #10: The name ubiquinol comes from the word "ubiquitous" Ubiquinol Clinical Research and Ongoing Studies Fact #11: Supplements: Not all ubiquinol supplements are created equal Key Takeaways

Since its introduction by Kaneka Nutrients in 2007, supplements containing ubiquinol have been on the rise as an alternative to conventional CoQ10 supplements containing ubiquinone. Read on to learn about the differences between the “ubiquinol” and “ubiquinone” CoQ10 molecules in their molecular forms in the body and supplement forms.

Put simply, CoQ10 molecules drive energy production for the body’s mitochondria. Ubiquinol, the active antioxidant form of CoQ10, is found in every cell of the body, and it is known to protect against oxidative stress (a prime result of excess free radicals — and possible catalyst for — premature aging).¹ Ubiquinol also helps promote and maintain healthy levels of cellular energy production by helping balance free radicals and antioxidants.² Understanding the key differences between ubiquinone, which is the oxidized form of CoQ10, and ubiquinol can help you make informed decisions about the supplements you take for cardiovascular health, healthy aging, cellular energy support, and more. Here are 11 essential facts that highlight why you should choose a Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supplement instead of a conventional CoQ10 supplement containing ubiquinone.

Quick Navigation:

– Understanding CoQ10 forms and conversion (Facts 1-3)

– Antioxidant properties and uniqueness (Facts 4-5)

– Health benefits and applications (Facts 6-7)

– Dosage and timing recommendations (Facts 8-9)

– Additional insights and research (Facts 10-11)

Fact #1: Molecules: CoQ10 exists in three forms

CoQ10 is produced naturally in the body and exists in three ever-shifting states (also known as redox states). The shift occurs when the molecule gains or loses electrons.^1,3 The three forms of CoQ10 are:

Ubiquinone (CoQ10) — fully oxidized
Ubisemiquinone — partially oxidized
Ubiquinol — non-oxidized and the active antioxidant form of the nutrient

This foundational knowledge helps you better understand CoQ10 supplement forms: only the ubiquinone and ubiquinol forms are found in supplements. Read more about the differences between ubiquinone CoQ10 and ubiquinol supplements and why ubiquinol is the preferred form of CoQ10 in the body and in supplements due to its antioxidant properties.

Supplements: Kaneka Ubiquinol^® Is More Bioavailable Than a Conventional CoQ10 Supplement

Just as a square is a rectangle, but not every rectangle is a square, ubiquinol is always a form of CoQ10, but not every form of CoQ10 is ubiquinol. Structurally, ubiquinol is converted from the ubiquinone form of CoQ10 by the addition of two electrons. This seemingly small addition makes ubiquinol more polar than ubiquinone, allowing it to dissolve in polar environments like lipids, which form cell and organelle membranes where the energy-making apparatus depends on both forms to function.

Kaneka Ubiquinol^® is two times better absorbed than a conventional CoQ10 supplement.⁴ Research demonstrates that 200 mg of Kaneka Ubiquinol^® taken for 30 days results in an increase in blood levels of approximately eight times.⁵ Find out more about the specifics of Kaneka Ubiquinol^®’s bioavailability at our clinical studies page.

Fact #2: Molecules: In the body, the predominant form of CoQ10 is ubiquinol

The conversion of ubiquinone CoQ10 into ubiquinol is a natural process that our bodies perform. In fact, the body must convert ubiquinone into ubiquinol before it can perform essential antioxidant functions. That’s why ubiquinol is the preferred form of CoQ10 in the blood.^6,7 A few factors, however, can compromise the natural ubiquinone-to-ubiquinol conversion in the body. These factors include aging, oxidative stress, genetic polymorphisms, and certain health-related conditions.

Discover how the key to your best years is healthy aging and tips you can implement today.

Fact #3: Molecules: Ubiquinol is the only form of CoQ10 that exists as an antioxidant

Only the ubiquinol form of CoQ10 functions as a powerful antioxidant, which is a molecule that prevents the oxidation of other molecules. While oxygen is essential for life, it can sometimes form reactive oxygen species — unstable molecules known as “free radicals” — that are highly reactive and can damage healthy cells and contribute to cellular deterioration and cell death. Ubiquinol, as an antioxidant, helps protect against this occurrence by “mopping up” excess free radicals.^2,6

Discover how ubiquinol’s antioxidant properties benefit your body in a variety of ways.

Fact #4: Molecules: Ubiquinol is the only known lipid-soluble antioxidant synthesized in the body

Lipid solubility refers to the affinity of a molecule to become dissolved in lipids, which are fats or fat-like molecules. For instance, the inner mitochondrial membrane is made out of lipids and is a site where ubiquinol is active. While Vitamin E is also a lipid-soluble antioxidant (fat-soluble, allowing it to work in cell membranes) that protects cells from free radical damage, ubiquinol has been shown to be more effective than Vitamin E in neutralizing free radicals and protecting LDL cholesterol against lipid peroxidation.^3,8 Ubiquinol has also been shown to have a sparing and regenerating effect on Vitamin E.

Fact #5: Molecules: After age 40, the body doesn’t convert ubiquinone (CoQ10) into ubiquinol as efficiently

Ubiquinol is the form of CoQ10 that can be transported in the blood. In healthy young adults, the process of converting ubiquinone to ubiquinol is efficient, helping to ensure ubiquinol can be easily distributed throughout the body.. When we hit our 40s, however, our bodies need a little extra help converting ubiquinone to ubiquinol. While this is a normal part of aging, adding a Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supplement to your routine might be just what your body needs during these biological changes.^9,10

Fact #6: Supplements: Ubiquinol Supports Cardiovascular and Heart Health

Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supports cardiovascular health and is better absorbed than a conventional CoQ10 supplement — meaning when consumed in supplement form, ubiquinol can reach the blood more easily. Furthermore, unlike the ubiquinone form of CoQ10, the body doesn’t have to convert it to ubiquinol before it can be transported in the blood and perform antioxidant functions.^11,12 For individuals taking statins, blood levels of CoQ10 may be reduced. Luckily, supplementing with Kaneka Ubiquinol^® can replenish those levels and provide cardiovascular support.^13,14

Fact #7: Supplements: Kaneka Nutrients produces ubiquinol that is bio-identical

Kaneka Ubiquinol^® found in supplements is molecularly the same as — or “bioidentical” to — the active antioxidant form of ubiquinol produced in the body. Ubiquinol is a good choice for individuals of all adult ages, but it’s especially ideal for adults over 40, when the body’s ability to convert the ubiquinone form of CoQ10 into ubiquinol begins to decline. With a Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supplement, you are taking the form of CoQ10 that is the predominant and preferred form in your body.

Supplements: Ubiquinol Promotes Cellular Wellness and Healthy Aging

Ubiquinol goes beyond just supporting heart health: it supports cellular well-being so your mitochondria and cells can function as they should. Its antioxidant properties make it ideal for protecting against an imbalance of antioxidants and free radicals that causes cellular damage. This is why choosing Kaneka Ubiquinol^®helps promote healthy aging.

Fact #8: As an antioxidant, ubiquinol promotes cellular energy and healthy aging

As we metabolize foods to turn them into energy, the body naturally creates free radicals — and the mitochondria are the greatest source of free radicals in the body.¹⁵ Ubiquinol is required for 95% of the body’s cellular energy production, but that’s not all: it is crucial for maintaining a balance of antioxidants and free radicals.¹ An excess of free radicals can damage cells and cause oxidative stress, a key factor in premature aging.^16,17 That’s why ubiquinol is not only critical for your cellular function but also helps keep free radical levels at bay so you can age well.

What Is the Recommended Kaneka Ubiquinol® Supplement Dosage for Adults?

If you’re wondering about the appropriate dosage for a supplement containing ubiquinol, talk to your doctor or licensed healthcare provider. They can advise on the right amount based on several factors, including your age, health status, lifestyle, and more. The typical recommended dosage for adults on supplement labels is 100mg daily, but some adults may require more than that. For example, your healthcare provider may recommend starting with a higher dosage if you are taking statins or if a blood test indicates your total CoQ10 or ubiquinol levels are lower than normal. Only your healthcare provider can advise you as to your individualized nutritional requirements.

If you’re ready to stock up on your Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supplement supply, review our Buyer’s Guide to guide your purchase.

Fact #9: Supplements: When is the best time to take ubiquinol?

The best time to take a Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supplement is when it fits into your daily routine so you can be consistent. It’s generally recommended, however, to take a supplement containing ubiquinol at mealtime for optimal ubiquinol absorption. If you take other supplements at a particular time of day, you can simply add ubiquinol to your regimen. While a Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supplement can be taken in the morning, afternoon, or night, some people have reported a difference in their sleep quality or ability to fall asleep when they take ubiquinol at night. In this case, it’s best to take ubiquinol earlier in the day, at breakfast or lunch, or at a time that fits into your routine. Always talk to your healthcare provider for individualized health and supplement recommendations or if you have any questions or concerns about your health.

Fact #10: The name ubiquinol comes from the word “ubiquitous”

The name ubiquinol comes from the words “ubiquity” or “ubiquitous,” both of which derive from the Greek term for “being everywhere at once.” That’s because ubiquinol is everywhere in your body. Literally: ubiquinol is found in every single cell in the human body. In fact, it’s in nearly every cell, tissue, and organ in mammals.

Ubiquinol Clinical Research and Ongoing Studies

As a science-driven company, Kaneka is continually investing in new research to deepen and expand the knowledge base about the health benefits of ubiquinol. Kaneka supports ongoing ubiquinol research, and products containing Kaneka Ubiquinol^® are stamped with our Kaneka Quality Seal to ensure you are getting genuine Kaneka Ubiquinol^® in your ubiquinol supplements.

Fact #11: Supplements: Not all ubiquinol supplements are created equal

Not all supplements containing ubiquinol on the market are the same. At Kaneka, we are committed to testing and identifying the supplements you can trust, based on our high-quality manufacturing, quality standards, and testing processes to identify counterfeit products.

Key Takeaways

✓ Ubiquinol is the active, antioxidant form of CoQ10
✓ A Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supplement has superior bioavailability compared to a conventional CoQ10 supplement
✓ Ubiquinol is the only form of CoQ10 that functions as an antioxidant
✓ Ubiquinol is beneficial for all adults, especially those over 40
✓ Typical supplement starting dose: 100mg daily with meals
✓ A Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supplement is bioidentical to the ubiquinol your body produces naturally
✓ Ubiquinol supports cardiovascular health and cellular energy production
✓ Ubiquinol promotes healthy aging and cellular health, thanks to its antioxidant properties

These 11 facts demonstrate why a Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supplement represents a significant advancement over conventional CoQ10 supplements. With superior bioavailability and direct antioxidant activity without the need for conversion in the body, Kaneka Ubiquinol^® supplements offer an efficient approach to supporting cellular energy and cardiovascular health.

For personalized ubiquinol dosage recommendations, consult with your healthcare provider.