CoQ10 Vs Ubiquinol, What's the difference?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a nutrient found naturally in the body that plays an important role in energy production and overall wellbeing.
You may have seen CoQ10 available in two different forms: ubidecarenone (CoQ10) and ubiquinol. While they are closely related, there are some key differences worth understanding.
What is CoQ10?
CoQ10 is involved in the production of cellular energy and also acts as an antioxidant, helping to reduce free radical damage to body cells.
In supplements, CoQ10 is commonly provided as:
- Ubidecarenone (CoQ10) – the oxidised form
- Ubiquinol – the reduced form
Both forms can support:
- Energy levels and energy production
- General health and wellbeing
- Healthy cardiovascular system function
What is Ubiquinol?
Ubiquinol is the reduced (active) form of CoQ10 and is involved in the same processes in the body, including energy production and antioxidant activity.
Ubiquinol may help:
- Support energy levels and production
- Support healthy cardiovascular system function
- Help maintain healthy blood lipids and cholesterol levels in healthy individuals
- Support sperm health, motility and production
- Reduce free radical damage to body cells
Ubiquinol vs Ubidecarenone – What’s the Difference?
In the body, CoQ10 naturally converts between ubidecarenone and ubiquinol depending on what is needed.
The key differences are:
- Form: Ubidecarenone is the oxidised form, while ubiquinol is the reduced form
- Function: Both contribute to energy production and antioxidant protection
- Conversion: The body can convert between the two forms as required
Some research suggests differences in absorption between forms, however both are widely used in supplementation.
Which Form Should You Choose?
Both forms of CoQ10 can support energy production and overall wellbeing.
General considerations may include:
- Ubidecarenone (CoQ10): commonly used for general health and energy support
- Ubiquinol: may be preferred in situations where additional support for cardiovascular health or sperm health is desired
Individual needs can vary depending on factors such as age, diet and lifestyle.
ANC CoQ10 Options
At ANC, we offer both forms of CoQ10 to support different health needs:
- CoQ10 150mg (Ubidecarenone) – supports energy production, cardiovascular system health and general wellbeing
- CoQ10 300mg Ubiquinol – supports energy production, cardiovascular system health, helps in the maintenance of healthy blood lipids and supports sperm health
Both formulas also provide antioxidant support to help reduce free radical damage to body cells.
Dietary Sources of CoQ10
CoQ10 can be found in small amounts in foods such as:
- Beef and pork
- Chicken
- Oily fish
- Vegetable oils (such as soybean and olive oil)
How to Take CoQ10
CoQ10 and ubiquinol are fat soluble nutrients, meaning they are best taken with food that contains fat to support absorption.
Supporting Your Cardiovascular Health
In addition to supplementation, general lifestyle habits that support cardiovascular health include:
- Eating a balanced diet
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Regular physical activity
- Managing stress
Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
This information is general in nature and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional.
If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.
Supplements may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate.
References
Zhang, Y., Liu, J., Chen, X., & Chen, C. (2018). Ubiquinol is superior to ubiquinone to enhance
Coenzyme Q10 status in older men, 9(11), 5653-5659.
Pravst, I., Aguilera, J., Rodriguez, A., & Jazbar, J. (2020). Comparative Bioavailability of Different
Coenzyme Q10 Formulations in Healthy Elderly Individuals, 12(3), 784.
