If you're looking for supplements to lower blood pressure, keep reading! Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a fat-soluble vitamin-like substance present in every cell of the body. CoQ10 plays an important role in energy production at the cellular level. It helps generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the main source of energy for all cells in the body and CoQ10 can also help balance high blood pressure.

Coenzyme Q10 has been shown to help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol and support healthy blood pressure by acting as a natural blood thinner and relaxing the smooth muscle in the veins. In this article, we will discuss how coenzyme Q10 supplementation could potentially help balance high blood pressure and protect heart health.

What is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can be a serious condition if left untreated. High blood pressure is a condition in which the force of blood against artery walls is high enough to damage them over time. This can lead to heart disease and stroke. It's estimated that 1 in 3 adults have high blood pressure but don't know it. Plus, only half of those who do know their numbers are on treatment plans that work for them. The most common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and chest pain (angina).

There are three different types of blood pressure readings: systolic, diastolic, and pulse. The systolic reading is the maximum pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The diastolic reading is the minimum pressure in your arteries between heartbeats. The pulse rate is simply how many times your heart beats per minute (bpm).

Causes of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease. High blood pressure tends to run in families but can also result from other illnesses. Often, high blood pressure is a sign of more serious blockages occurring in the arteries, a high viscosity of the blood, and/or a weak heart muscle. Luckily there are natural alternatives and supplements to lower blood pressure.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and High Blood Pressure

CoQ10 deficiency has been linked to several health problems, including heart disease and diabetes. Interestingly, one symptom of CoQ10 deficiency is high blood pressure. Here are some mechanisms by which Q10 can support healthy blood pressure:

• Energy production: Your heart has high energy needs, so your heart muscle contains more CoQ10 than any other organ in the body. CoQ10 is a critical component of the energy production process in the heart and helps produce energy in the form of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). CoQ10 has been extensively studied for its effects on heart health, including preventing heart failure and improving heart function after bypass surgery or a heart attack. CoQ10 works by helping to enhance the production of energy in the heart muscle, helping the heart pump blood more efficiently.

• Dilation of the blood vessel and arterial walls and reduction of blood platelet size: CoQ10 may also help improve endothelial function, which refers to the ability of blood vessel walls to relax and expand. This function is usually limited in patients who have narrowed and/or hardened arteries (atherosclerosis). One review looked at the results of five small randomized controlled trials that found that supplemental CoQ10 (150 mg/day) resulted in a clinically significant increase in endothelial dilation after 12 weeks. CoQ10 works by boosting the production of nitric oxide in the body. This chemical relaxes muscles in the walls of blood vessels and causes them to widen slightly, which lowers blood pressure. By regulating blood flow throughout your circulatory system, CoQ10 may also help reduce platelet size.

In one review, researchers evaluated the results of 17 randomized controlled trials. They found that supplementation with Q10 significantly decreased systolic blood pressure.

CoQ10 Supplements for Blood Pressure

CoQ10 is naturally present in several foods, but in very small amounts. This is why coenzyme Q10 is often used as a supplement.

But when it comes to taking a CoQ10 supplement, there are two main formats: ubiquinone and ubiquinol.

Ubiquinone is the standard form of coenzyme Q10 available in supplement form. It is available in various potencies; however, to be fully bioavailable, it must be converted into the reduced form of ubiquinol. This process is harder for the human body to perform after age 40 and especially for those with serious health concerns, including high blood pressure.

Ubiquinol is preferred by practitioners because it protects against free radical-induced damage to DNA, lipids, and proteins. Because it is a more bioavailable form of coenzyme Q10, it is sold in lower doses. When looking for a ubiquinol supplement, look for a quality softgel that provides optimal absorption.

Generally, doses of up to 150 milligrams of ubiquinol taken twice daily can be beneficial for increasing circulation and supporting high blood pressure.

Nutrients to Take Alongside CoQ10 for Better Blood Pressure Control

If you are taking CoQ10 for better blood pressure control, you may also want to consider taking ginkgo biloba, vitamin E, and magnesium.

• Ginkgo biloba supports healthy circulation throughout the body by opening the blood vessels and making the blood less "sticky."
• Vitamin E functions as a natural blood thinner. It is important to consult with an expert before supplementing with ginkgo and vitamin E if you are taking other blood-thinning medications.
• Magnesium is involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions in the body, including blood pressure and lipid peroxidation. Additionally, there is a correlation between people with low serum magnesium levels and cardiovascular disease.

In conclusion, high blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to heart disease. The good news is that there are many ways to prevent and treat high blood pressure, including taking CoQ10 supplements. CoQ10 is most widely known for its effects on the heart. It is used to reduce high blood pressure and support angina pain, poor circulation, and the side effects of using statin drugs for high cholesterol.

CoQ10 FAQs

What is the current research on CoQ10?

The current research on CoQ10 is focused on its effects in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases. CoQ10 has also been shown to be beneficial for diseases affecting the mitochondria, including fibromyalgia. There is also current research on Q10 and energy, as well as brain health.

Is coenzyme Q10 safe?

Coenzyme Q10 is generally considered safe. Side effects have been reported, but they are rare and tend to be mild, including nausea and stomach discomfort.

References

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22088605/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29330704/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0047637421000932

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22088605/