Nutrition is a hot topic for many. Lifestyle changes, including diet, have the potential to significantly lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological conditions. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and healthy life choices can make a world of difference to overall well-being.

Until now, the focus has largely been on macronutrients (energy, carbohydrates, protein, and fibre) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals). However, there’s a growing interest in another ‘fascinating’ nutritional compound known as ubiquinol.

Despite this, many are still unsure about what ubiquinol is, or haven’t ever heard of it. Research commissioned by Kaneka Ubiquinol, the bioavailable form of Co-Enzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which offers assistance for couples struggling to conceive, revealed that 80% were unsure about what ubiquinol was.

Up to 74% had never heard of ubiquinol, 62% disagreed with the statement that they understood what ubiquinol does, and 64% did not know if ubiquinol could play a role in their health. Further data highlighted that:

• Just over three-quarters (76%) did not know the difference between coenzyme Q10 and ubiquinol.
• Just under three-quarters (72%) were unsure whether ubiquinol or ubiquinone was more bioavailable.

As we get older, our body’s ability to convert CoQ10 into ubiquinol decreases, which may make foods and supplements rich in ubiquinol beneficial for older adults. Additionally, certain medications like statins, along with lifestyle factors such as sun exposure, can affect CoQ10 and ubiquinol levels, reports Wales Online.

What exactly is ubiquinol?

Public health nutritionist and member of the Kaneka Ubiquinol expert hub, Dr Emma Derbyshire, has highlighted the significance of a lesser-known nutrient, saying: “Ubiquinol is a vitamin-like substance that acts as a powerful antioxidant, playing a key role in the production of cellular energy needed by human cells and organs.

“Just as a lamp is powered by electricity or a car by electricity or petrol, human cells and organs are powered by cellular energy. Some of us may have heard of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), but many of us are unaware that there are two forms of this nutrient – ubiquinol and ubiquinone.”

She explains that ubiquinol is the active and bioavailable form of CoQ10, which is more readily absorbed by the body compared to its counterpart, ubiquinone. Often described as ‘fully loaded’ CoQ10, ubiquinol boasts additional electrons, enhancing its potency. Studies suggest that Kaneka Ubiquinol’s absorption rate is significantly higher than conventional CoQ10.

How can ubiquinol improve health?

Dr Derbyshire also explains how ubiquinol can bolster health, noting its abundant presence in every cell, especially the heart, where it’s crucial for energy production and antioxidant defence. Consuming ubiquinol has been increasingly associated with numerous health benefits, such as boosting fertility.

1. Reinforcing fertility

Public health nutritionist Dr Emma Derbyshire has spearheaded a ground-breaking research review published in the journal of Gynaecology and Women’s Health Research, concluding that: “After reviewing 17 trials we found that Ubiquinol appears to contribute to improvements in female egg quality, fertilisation, markers of sperm quality, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) symptoms and hormone levels.”

2. Combatting oxidative stress

Ubiquinol is rich in extra electrons that help neutralise free radicals, which can harm human cells and lead to oxidative stress. Free radicals may arise from exposure to tobacco smoke, fried foods, alcohol, and air pollutants. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to combat them with antioxidants.

Ubiquinol, a powerful antioxidant, plays a vital role in restoring this balance. It works by neutralising free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and result in various health problems.

3. Boosting cellular energy production

Ubiquinol is present in every cell throughout the human body. It plays a crucial role in 95% of cellular energy production, including the creation of the energy molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Ubiquinol is essential in the mitochondria, the cell’s powerhouses. It aids mitochondria in generating energy more effectively.

4. Alleviating fatigue

Research indicates that taking ubiquinol may help alleviate fatigue, especially in cases of mild fatigue and fatigue resulting from exercise. Studies have shown that ubiquinol could improve the functioning of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates essential bodily functions like heart rate and breathing. It may also enhance cognitive functions that could be affected by fatigue.

Additional studies have examined ubiquinol’s potential to combat fatigue. In a study involving 20 adults (average age 44 years) who were experiencing fatigue in their daily lives, a daily intake of 150mg of ubiquinol over a period of four weeks was found to significantly reduce feelings of mild fatigue. While further research is necessary, these findings are intriguing and align with ubiquinol’s role in energising human cells.

Where can I get ubiquinol?

It’s in foods like oily fish, turkey, all sorts of poultry, citrus fruits, and a handful of nuts and seeds – like pistachios and sesame seeds. But you’d have to eat large portions of them to get the benefits, which is why supplements are often best.

Dr Emma Derbyshire said: “Ubiquinol is certainly a substance that we will be hearing much more about in the future, particularly in relation to reinforcement of fertility, active lifestyles and healthy ageing”. However, it is wise to chat with your GP before adding any new supplements to your life.

Ubiquinol is generally considered safe for most adults when used as directed, with minimal side effects. However, it can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and blood pressure drugs.

It’s always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements, like ubiquinol, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications. This information is meant for general knowledge and should not be taken as medical advice. Always seek advice from a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement regimen.