Ubiquinol & CoQ10 FAQs 

What is Ubiquinol?

Ubiquinol is the reduced, active antioxidant form of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Produced naturally within healthy bodies, Ubiquinol is CoQ10 that has been converted (“reduced”) for use in the cellular energy production process. In addition to its critical role in energy production, it is the strongest lipid-soluble antioxidant available, protecting the body’s cells from oxidative stress which can cause damage to proteins, lipids and DNA*.

What is the difference between ubiquinone and Ubiquinol?

CoQ10 and Ubiquinol are both forms of CoQ10, and both are necessary to produce cellular energy. Ubiquinone is the oxidized form of CoQ10 that consumers are most familiar with; it has been taken as a supplement and studied for more than 30 years. Over the past three decades, CoQ10 has been recognized for its benefits to general health and wellness as well cardiovascular and neurological health.

In order to generate cellular energy, the body must convert ubiquinone into Ubiquinol. Without this conversion, the body’s energy production process cannot be completed and energy levels cannot be sustained. Thus, both are critical to sustaining your body’s natural energy.

Why should I be concerned about declining Ubiquinol levels?

Declines in Ubiquinol result in less cellular energy and diminished protection against oxidative stress, which produces free radicals and can damage the body’s cells, including proteins, lipids and DNA. Ubiquinol provides a strong first-stage defense against this cellular oxidative damage and needs to be replenished to maintain optimum health*.

An increasing number of scientific reports indicate that dramatic decreases in ubiquinone levels and increased oxidative stress are associated with the aging process and with many age-related conditions.

Why does supplementing with Ubiquinol become more important as I age?

As a healthy 20-year-old, you readily produce all of the CoQ10 you can use and efficiently convert it into Ubiquinol. In fact, the predominant form of CoQ10 in the plasma and tissues of a healthy individual is the reduced Ubiquinol form.

However, age and other factors can hinder the body’s ability to produce and metabolize CoQ10*. Some reasons for this include increased metabolic demand, insufficient dietary intake, oxidative stress, or any combination of these things. Some reports say this decline becomes apparent around 40 years old, although it can begin as early as 20 in some cases. As the body’s ability to produce and reduce CoQ10 begins, supplementation with CoQ10 and/or Ubiquinol becomes increasingly important to maintaining good health.

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How do I know which form of CoQ10 is right for me?

For young, healthy individuals CoQ10 should usually be sufficient for supplementation needs. Healthy adults in their 20s can easily metabolize CoQ10 and convert it into Ubiquinol; thus, supplementing with CoQ10 likely will be the most efficient way to raise CoQ10 levels.

For individuals who are 30+, Ubiquinol is likely more beneficial since the body’s ability to produce CoQ10 and convert it into Ubiquinol is diminished*. Optimal Ubiquinol levels are important to those looking to support cardiovascular, neurological and liver health*. Because Ubiquinol is pre-converted, it is ready for immediate use by the body, making it ideal for those unable to efficiently reduce CoQ10 in the body*

How much Ubiquinol should I take?

The recommended dose of Ubiquinol varies based on each individual’s needs. However, those who are older or suspect they have decreased CoQ10 due to disease may want to start supplementing with 200mg of Ubiquinol per day. Studies show that the CoQ10 plasma levels plateau at about two weeks at this dose. Then, 100 mg per day is a good maintenance dose.

If CoQ10 has been available in supplement form for 30 years, why is Ubiquinol only recently available?

Since Ubiquinol is easily oxidized in the air, it has been difficult to develop a stable supply in a reduced supplement form. However, using advanced technology, scientists have been able to perfect a stabilization process by which Ubiquinol remains in its reduced form and readily usable in the body.

Can I get Ubiquinol from the foods I eat?

You can get Ubiquinol and Ubiquinone in small amounts from your diet; however, you would have to eat the foods in such large amounts as to make them an impractical resource for your CoQ10 supplementation needs. And because the body’s ability to convert ubiquinone to Ubiquinol declines with age, food becomes a less practical source of Ubiquinol for older individuals and those suffering from age-related conditions.

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What are the health benefits associated with Ubiquinol?

For those individuals who cannot efficiently convert CoQ10 to Ubiquinol, supplementing with Ubiquinol will restore healthy levels of CoQ10 in plasma and organs for more efficient energy production. This should result in more energy and stamina as well as better overall health. Additionally, because Ubiquinol is an extremely powerful antioxidant, it offers a strong protective defense against oxidative stress and age-related conditions.

How long will I have to take Ubiquinol before feeling the benefits?

Ubiquinol is not a quick fix for those looking for increased energy. Unlike caffeine or sugar which boost energy levels quickly and can cause a “crash” later, Ubiquinol offers sustained natural energy. Although each individual is different, it generally takes two to three weeks to restore optimal CoQ10 levels in blood plasma and tissues, most people will begin feeling the effects as their individual plasma levels start to increase, generally around the fifth day.

I’ve heard that Ubiquinol “sustains your natural energy.” What does that mean?

Ubiquinol is required for the body to generate energy. Restoring this vital nutrient to optimal levels in people over 40 will restore the same type of youthful energy the body produced when it could efficiently convert CoQ10 to Ubiquinol and maintain adequate concentrations of Ubiquinol in plasma and tissues. Thus, supplementing with Ubiquinol is the ideal way to restore and sustain your natural energy.

What kind of clinical studies have been conducted on Ubiquinol?

Scientists and researchers have been studying this nutrient for more than a decade and have conducted numerous safety and toxicity studies on the ingredient. Additionally, as a form of CoQ10, Ubiquinol will have all of the same benefits of CoQ10. However, because Ubiquinol has only been commercially available since 2006, scientists have only recently begun to study the specific benefits of this reduced form of CoQ10. A number of promising studies and trials are getting underway. Scientists and researchers have been studying this nutrient for more than a decade and have conducted numerous safety and toxicity studies on the ingredient. Additionally, as a form of CoQ10, ubiquinol will have all of the same benefits of CoQ10. However, because Ubiquinol has only been commercially available since 2006, scientists have only recently begun to study the specific benefits of this reduced form of CoQ10. A number of promising studies and trials are getting underway.

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From Research Findings: 

Why do I need a Ubiquinol supplement?

Your body produces conventional CoQ10, also known as ubiquinone, in every cell of your body and then converts it into ubiquinol. Beginning around the age of 30, your body doesn’t produce as much CoQ10, and its ability to convert CoQ10 into ubiquinol diminishes.

Some prescription medications can further deplete the amount of CoQ10 produced by your body. In addition, some health conditions such as stress, fatigue and aging, also diminish your body’s levels of CoQ10. Taking a Ubiquinol supplement can replenish the necessary amounts of ubiquinol in your body.

CoQ10 is still effective as a dietary supplement. However after the age of 30, when your body’s ability to covert CoQ10 to ubiquinol diminishes, you may get greater benefits from Ubiquinol.

What role does ubiquinol play in my body and overall health?

  • Ubiquinol is the key component in 95% of your body’s cellular energy production.
  • Ubiquinol is an antioxidant that protects your heart and other organs from free-radical damage.
  • Ubiquinol provides your heart with the energy and protection it needs to function at its best.

Why should I take a Ubiquinol supplement over a CoQ10 supplement?

  • As a dietary supplement, Ubiquinol is the active, ready-to-use form of CoQ10, making it more readily absorbed by your body. Ubiquinol is your body’s preferred form of CoQ10.
  • Clinical studies show supplementation with Ubiquinol to be up to 8 times more effective at increasing the concentration of ubiquinol in your blood plasma.
  • Ubiquinol is ideal for current CoQ10 users looking for increased efficacy and superior absorption.
  • Taking a Ubiquinol supplement can provide your body with a higher level of sustained, natural energy from within.

What health benefits do Ubiquinol users experience versus CoQ10 users?

Ubiquinol is the active, pre-converted form of CoQ10. When you take a CoQ10 supplement, your body converts it to Ubiquinol in order to gain the health benefits. As you age, your body’s ability to make the conversion from CoQ10 to Ubiquinol decreases. By taking a Ubiquinol supplement you know you are getting the full health benefits. Any benefit gained from a CoQ10 (ubiquinone) supplement is because your body has been able to convert it to its usable form Ubiquinol.

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Where is CoQ10 made in the body?

CoQ10 is produced primarily in the liver and then converted to Ubiquinol in the body through an enzymatic process known as the redox cycle which is short for reduction oxidation. CoQ10 must be "reduced" into Ubiquinol before it can be used in the body.

At what age do I need Ubiquinol?

Beginning in your 30’s. In young and healthy individuals, the body readily produces CoQ10 and converts it to the usable form Ubiquinol. However as we age this process slows and necessitates a switch to Ubiquinol, usually some time in your 30's, although this varies by individual.

How does Ubiquinol work?

It works at the cellular level providing energy and antioxidant protection to cells. Without it, the body cannot sustain energy. The body’s ability to naturally produce this vital nutrient is diminished over time.

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What are the recent advancements in science/technology?

Ubiquinol because of its active nature is very difficult to stabilize into an ingredient. Much of the technology focused around this. Previously, only CoQ10 was available.

Where does the name Ubiquinol come from?

Ubiquinol comes from the word “Ubiquitous” meaning everywhere. Ubiquinol is in every cell of your body and is responsible for cellular energy production and protection.

What are the benefits to statin users? 

Cholesterol-lowering medications known as statins deplete your body's natural production of CoQ10. There have been certain side effects associated with the use of statin medications such as fatigue and chronic muscle aches & pains. Taking a CoQ10 or Ubiquinol supplement will help to replenish the loss of CoQ10 levels associated with statin use. If you are experiencing symptoms associated with your statin medication consult with your physician immediately.

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