Coenzyme q10

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Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) is an enzyme that is naturally produced in the body. It participates in the energy-managing processes of cells and has an antioxidant effect. Antioxidants protect cells against damage by free radicals, which are highly chemically active by-products of normal cell activity. The levels of coenzyme Q10 seem to be lower in older people and in people with chronic diseases, such as heart problems, cancer, Parkinson disease, diabetes, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or AIDS, and muscular dystrophies. However, it is not known whether these low levels contribute to these disorders.
Rich dietary sources of coenzyme Q10 are meat, fish, and vegetable oils.
(See also Overview of Dietary Supplements.)