CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)

CoQ10 sits at the center of how your cells produce energy. Every cell uses it, but the heart – which never stops working – depends on it most. CoQ10 levels decline with age and drop sharply with statin medication use.

What CoQ10 actually does.

Inside each cell's mitochondria, CoQ10 shuttles electrons along the electron transport chain – the process that converts food into ATP, the molecule that powers everything your body does. Without adequate CoQ10, the chain slows down. The heart muscle, with its constant energy demand, is the first place you feel that slowdown.

Statins and CoQ10 depletion.

Statins lower cholesterol by blocking HMG-CoA reductase – the same enzyme used in an early step of CoQ10 synthesis. The mechanism that makes statins work also suppresses CoQ10 production. Research consistently shows measurable CoQ10 depletion in statin users, with some studies linking this to the muscle fatigue and weakness that some people experience on statins. If you're on a statin and experience fatigue or muscle discomfort, this is the most evidence-supported supplement to address it.

Why 200mg.

Most CoQ10 products run 100mg. The research showing meaningful cardiac and mitochondrial effects – particularly in heart failure and statin-depletion contexts – generally uses 200–300mg/day. This formula is at the lower end of that range.

An honest timing note.

CoQ10 is fat-soluble – it absorbs significantly better with dietary fat than on an empty stomach. Take it with a fat-containing meal, not before eating. A meal with eggs, avocado, olive oil, or fish will substantially improve absorption compared to taking it fasted.