What Are The Symptoms Of CoQ10 Deficiency?
Living in your fifties and sixties is not easy; you have to deal with many health problems. As we age, the body undergoes many changes, which results in muscle weakness and neurological disorders. So if you are also experiencing some of these issues, it might be due to CoQ10 deficiency.
But are two symptoms enough to justify it? Therefore, for your guidance, I am writing this article. Down below, I have highlighted all the possible symptoms of CoQ10 deficiency so that you can have a clear idea about it.
Now without wasting much time, let’s start our journey!
Table of Contents
What Is CoQ10?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a natural antioxidant produced by the body and found in every cell. It plays a crucial role in the production of energy within cells, particularly in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the primary energy source for the body’s cells.
CoQ10 is also involved in other essential functions within the body, such as supporting cardiovascular health, maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, and protecting cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
What Causes CoQ10 Deficiency?
There are many factors that can lead to CoQ10 deficiency, and these include:
Aging: As we age, our bodies produce less CoQ10 naturally, which can contribute to a deficiency.
Medical conditions: Certain conditions, such as genetic disorders, mitochondrial diseases, and heart disease, can contribute to CoQ10 deficiency.
Medications: Some medications, such as statins, beta-blockers, and tricyclic antidepressants, can lower CoQ10 levels in the body.
Poor Diet: A diet low in foods containing CoQ10 and other nutrients, such as fruits and vegetables, can contribute to a deficiency.
Increased demand: Certain factors, such as intense physical exercise or periods of high stress, can increase the body’s demand for CoQ10, which can lead to a deficiency if the body is unable to produce or obtain enough CoQ10 to meet its needs.
It’s important to note that CoQ10 deficiency is relatively rare, and most people are able to obtain enough CoQ10 through a healthy diet or with the help of supplements. However, if you suspect you may have a CoQ10 deficiency, look for possible symptoms and consult your doctor.
Symptoms Of CoQ10 Deficiency?
Organ Damage
CoQ10 deficiency can damage organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. CoQ10 is involved in energy production in these organs, and a deficiency can lead to decreased function and even damage over time.
Brain Damage
CoQ10 is vital for brain health and function, and a deficiency may contribute to brain damage and degeneration.
Seizures
Low levels of CoQ10 may contribute to seizures by affecting the energy production and function of neurons in the brain.
Weak Muscles
CoQ10 is involved in muscle energy production, and a deficiency can lead to weakness and fatigue.
Occasional Muscle Spasms
If you are deficient in CoQ10, it may lead to occasional muscle spasms by affecting the function and energy production in the muscles.
Abnormal Eye Movement
CoQ10 is involved in producing energy in the eyes, and a deficiency may cause abnormal eye movements and even vision loss in some cases.
Vision Loss
CoQ10 plays an essential part in the health and function of the eyes, and having a low amount in the body can result in vision loss.
Hearing Loss
Furthermore, it can also lead to hearing loss over time.
Kidney Dysfunction
CoQ10 plays a crucial role in energy production and the proper functioning of the kidneys. Insufficient levels of CoQ10 can result in reduced kidney function and long-term damage.
High Blood Pressure
In order to maintain the regulation of blood pressure, CoQ10 is needed, and a deficiency may result in high blood pressure over time.
What To Do IF You Are COQ10 Deficient?
So by now, you have read all the possible symptoms, and unfortunately, you find most of them in yourself. In such a situation, the first thing you need to do is to calm yourself. You are not the only one who is facing this issue.
Secondly, Go and consult with a healthcare professional. They will help you diagnose the problem and recommend the appropriate treatment plan. The diagnosis is often made by measuring the levels of CoQ10 in the blood.
Moreover, try to elevate your CoQ10 levels by taking supplements or eating a diet rich in this substance. Foods rich in this substance include fatty fish, meats, and whole grains.
However, it is important to note that the amount of CoQ10 in food is relatively low compared to the amount in supplements, so obtaining sufficient amounts through diet alone may be challenging.
Conclusion
CoQ10 is one of the important substances responsible for controlling various tasks in the body. However, with age or due to medications, the levels decrease, resulting in various health problems.
A deficiency of CoQ10 in the body can cause vision loss, seizures, involuntary muscle contractions, intellectual disability, and many more. Therefore it’s essential to keep its levels balanced. You can do it by eating foods like meat or taking supplements.
