10 Best CoQ10 Supplements Fully Researched and Compared
By JenU
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It seems that achieving “the good life” is all about the balance: finding contentment at work, a fitness routine you love, honing in on a healthy diet (with the exception of ice cream a couple of times a week!), making time for family, friends and self-care. Each of these play a vital role in achieving mindful wellness and happiness.
However, our simultaneously delicate and masterful bodies often require a bit more than even the best-laid lifestyle plan can provide. First, “life” can get in the way of “lifestyle” – an unscheduled business meeting intercepts plans to go to the gym or an unexpected cold has you reaching for tissues and canned soup in place of the superfood vegan casserole you’d planned to make.
Certain vitamins and nutritional supplements go a long way in ensuring physiological balance even when the unexpected interferes with our fitness, nutrition and other goals. Of these, Coenzyme q10 is a major player. Found in all of our cells, and synthesized by the body, CoQ10 is largely responsible for producing energy. Additionally, it’s a megastar antioxidant which protects from harmful molecules that can be damaging. The “great recycler”, CoQ10 even reuses Vitamins C and E which means enhanced effects.
This powerful enzyme can be found in many foods, but fortunately it’s also available in supplements making it more accessible. With so many CoQ10 supplements available, it’s critical to find one that’s compatible with your own diet, health and even lifestyle – including budget.
After much research, we’ve simplified your search. With our top 10 list of CoQ10 supplements, find your right-fit and feel the difference in energy, immunity and overall health (don’t forget better looking skin, too)!
10 Best CoQ10 Supplements
1. Purely Holistic CoQ10
absorb
supplement made with gentle, organic ingredients. We love that no artificial or synthetic compounds are added. Better heart and immunity health with added energy!
This pure form of ubiquinone with no GMO’s is easy to absorb and easy on the stomach. The softgel is scientifically formulated to increase absorption into the bloodstream quickly.
Formulation
Formulated with ubiquinone which is the oxidized form of CoQ10, Purely Holistic CoQ10 is made with 100% natural ingredients to include organic olive oil, purified water, sunflower lecithin and iron oxide color.
Dose/Safety
For adults under the age of 40, 100 mg or one capsule is recommended. This dose should be doubled for adults over the age of 40 and for those suffering from heart or conditions resulting in high cholesterol, 400 mg daily is recommended with physician approval.
Cost/Value
240 softgels per bottle which means up to an 8 month supply at 100 mg daily dose. Excellent price for pure ingredients
- Softgel makes absorption easy
- Organic formulation including olive oil for easy digestion
- Not suitable for those who suffer from sunflower or potentially other nut allergies
2. Vitamins Because CoQ10
This version is available in capsule. The size is easy to swallow and the ingredients assist with faster digestion without stomach upset. Harmful molecules are kept at bay while this potent antioxidant works to increase immunity and heart health.
Formulation
The Vitamins Because CoQ10 supplement also contains rice powder and gelatin to help preserve and assist with digestion. We love that nothing artificialnothing artificial is included in the formulation - no worries of added sugars, salt or sodium, corn, milk or lactose products, starch or yeast. AND it’s gluten free! All health, nothing hidden.
Dose/Safety
A 400 mg potency should not be exceeded without a physician’s approval even for heart, circulatory or immunity issues. Dose to be taken once daily, preferably with food for better digestion.
Cost/Value
Medium price point
- Easy to swallow, size accommodating capsule
- 400 mg per dose means increased benefits
- Gelatin contains meat bi-products, so those adhering to vegetarian or vegan diets may want to consider this ingredient.
3. Thorne Research Choleast with CoQ10
This capsule both easy to swallow and boasts only pure ingredients, to include any coverings or lining associated with the capsule, itself. Even the preservatives and sweeteners are derived from botanicals or other natural sources so that your safety and best health is ensured. Simple, faster absorption results from this integrity.
Formulation
In each dose the Thorne formulation includes 200 mg of Magnesium, 90 mg of Potassium Citrate, 900 mg of Taurine, the flowering tops of Hawthorn extract - 350 mg, and 45 mg of coenzyme Q10. Hypromellose (from cellulose), Leucine and Silicon Dioxide are also included. The combination of minerals and other thoughtful ingredients enhance this heart healthy version making it an excellent selection for those looking for CoQ10 with the added benefits of magnesium and botanicals.
Dose/Safety
Some botanical ingredients can also cause blood thinning so it’s important to discuss this formulation with a physician. The lower CoQ10 (45 mg) is suitable for most, taken daily.
Cost/Value
Slightly higher price, but very fair when considering the conglomeration of pure botanicals, minerals and non-synthetic preservatives.
- Ultra pure, well researched and sought after ingredients from across the world
- We love the addition of botanicals for their medicinal value
- Zero artificial preservatives
- No nuts/allergy safe
- Pricier
- Lower mg’s of CoQ10
4. Ivy Naturals CoQ10
Made from pure Ubidecarenone (the official U.S. name for Ubiquinone, the generic label), this oxidized version of CoQ10 digests easily with no disruption to the stomach while still providing quick absorption. This high quality hydrosoluble moves specifically to the mitochondria and enhances energy while boosting immunity and even skin health.
Formulation
Formulated with a powder-within-capsule for easy swallowing, the Ivy Naturals CoQ10 also keeps it easy on ingredients, listing the Ubidecarenone as its primary ingredient, followed only by glycerine, gelatin, purified water and soy bean oil for smooth and healthy absorption and benefits.
Dose/Safety
100 mg per day is the recommended dose. Children under the age of 18 should not take without medical supervision. Those with allergies or medication reactions to soy also need to consult with a physician.
Cost/Value
Fair price point for the number of capsules
- Pure Ubidecarenone provides excellent source of CoQ10 with enhanced absorption
- 100% money back guarantee
- The Ubidecarenone structure promotes heart health with great system delivery
- 60 capsules equates to a two month supply, which is less than some contenders
5. Robust and Healthy CoQ10
Using a high grade CoQ10 assisted with tocopherals (TCP) to help methylate, this soft sided capsule is easy to swallow and absorb. No additional soluble fillers are necessary so the stomach is as happy as the skin, eyes, heart and immunity!
Formulation
We love the “robust” formulation which will definitely help to keep you healthy! The unique selection of tocopherals to assist in methylation and absorption also boast Vitamin E activity which further increases skin health. Add gelatin and purified water for better preservation with higher solubility.
Dose/Safety
Because this supplement is free of sugar, salt, starch, yeast, GMO’s, dairy and fish products, it is unlikely to interfere with any relatable food allergies or medical contraindications. The recommended dose is 1-3 100 mg softgels per day (not to be taken at once) with meals. Typically the higher dose is more preferable for older adults or those with cardiovascular conditions.
Cost/Value
Extremely budget friendly
- Highly soluble
- Softgel
- Tocopheral for methylation with Vitamin E (bonus!)
- 60 capsules per bottle (think about doubling up on purchase)
6. Built Wellness CoQ10 Supplement
The softgel, which is comprised in part of a water soluble glycerin, absorbs faster without compromising the stomach or digestion. The Ubidecarenone CoQ10 also works fast and converts easily to ubiquinol - the reduced form the body makes naturally.
Formulation
A light list of ingredients includes soybean oil, purified water, glycerin and gelatin combined with Ubidecarenone to assist in digestion and absorption without compromising the purity or the integrity of this CoQ10 version.
Dose/Safety
Serving size is recommended at one dose per day, each dose containing 100 mg of CoQ10. It is recommended that additional dosage be verified first with a medical doctor, especially for those interested in heart tissue repair tissue repair or boosting weakened immune systems.
Cost/Value
Medium price for a four month supply.
- 4 month supply means less ordering and renewing.
- We like the pure form of CoQ10, Ubidecarenone
- Softgel for faster, easier absorption
- Soybean oil may have contraindications with other foods or potentially medications
7. We Like Vitamins CoQ10
The softgel, which is comprised in part of a water soluble glycerin, absorbs faster without compromising the stomach or digestion. The Ubidecarenone CoQ10 also works fast and converts easily to ubiquinol - the reduced form the body makes naturally.
Formulation
A light list of ingredients includes soybean oil, purified water, glycerin and gelatin combined with Ubidecarenone to assist in digestion and absorption without compromising the purity or the integrity of this CoQ10 version.
Dose/Safety
Serving size is recommended at one dose per day, each dose containing 100 mg of CoQ10. It is recommended that additional dosage be verified first with a medical doctor, especially for those interested in heart tissue repair or boosting weakened immune systems.
Cost/Value
Medium price for a four month supply.
- 6 month supply means less ordering and renewing.
- We like the pure form of CoQ10, Ubidecarenone
- Softgel for faster, easier absorption
- Soybean oil may have contraindications with other foods or potentially medications
8. Doctor's Best High Absorption CoQ10
The patented extract, Bioperene, obtained from black pepper fruit is utilized as a bioavailability enhancer with Doctor’s Best for excellent absorption (approximately 30% more). This helps the body restore its own natural levels of Q10 faster and for even better health.
Formulation
Comprised of 5 mg of Bioperene (aka black pepper fruit extract) and 100 mg of CoQ10 with the addition of non-GMO extra virgin olive oil, soy lecithin, rosemary oil, then encapsulated in a softgel made of gelatin, glycerin, purified water, annatto (natural, plant-based coloring), this CoQ10 version is gentle, pure and powerful.
Dose/Safety
One or two softgel capsules are recommended daily. It is optional to combine with a meal for even better absorption absorption and digestion.
Cost/Value
Budget friendly, excellent product
- Bioperene patented version of black pepper fruit extract for up to 30 percent better absorption
- Non GMO
- Excellent value
- Contains soy, which can be a source of allergy for some
9. Viva Naturals CoQ10 with BioPerine
The CoQ10 natural antioxidant formula possesses a highly targeted absorption design using BioPerine to enhance the uptake and bioavailability of CoQ10. Extra Virgin olive oil naturally works to assist in absorption as well as digestion. The softgel design further enhances the digestion of this version, allowing the product to work well and work fast.
Formulation
The softgel is made up of gelatin (bovine, halal), glycerin, purified water, and chlorophyllin for natural coloring. The CoQ10 formulation itself consists simply of beeswax, olive oil, Bioperene and CoQ10. We love the thoughtfulness of mindful ingredients with no harmful preservatives or GMO’s!
Dose/Safety
Each bottle contains 150 softgel capsules with 100 mg doses. It is recommended that user’s take between one and two tablets with meals, not to exceed this without a doctor’s supervision. Children up to 18 years should also consult with a doctor prior to taking.
Cost/Value
Pure, simple, powerful ingredients at an extremely budget-friendly price
- Simple ingredients with Bioperene for maximum bioavailability
- Softgel design for efficient absorption and easier swallow
- Gelatin made from bovine or halal. Vegetarians and vegans or those with other diet restrictions should consider.
10. Qunol Ultra CoQ10
The solubilized CoQ10 blend dissolves completely in both fat and water. This capacity for uptake means 3x’s faster absorption (did we mention that’s 300% better?). The oils in the blend also assist with easy digestion and absorption. The Qunol Ultra’s scientifically led design is an intelligent and healthy means for synthesizing CoQ10 in the most efficient way.
Formulation
This intelligent blend will have you rethinking (or needing) statins or other heart medications. Fast absorption means correction to heart tissue quickly, with the added antioxidant benefits that can help pump up your immunity! All natural ingredients include 150 IU Vitamin E, Ubiquinone USP grade CoQ10 100 mg with gelatin, medium-chain triglycerides, hydroxylated lecithin, sorbitol annatto (from sunflower oil). Your heart will love you.
Dose/Safety
100 mg dose and 150 softgel capsules. Taken once per day, this means a five month supply!
Cost/Value
The Qunol Ultra is a bit pricier, but the quality absorption rate is unparalleled.
- Absorbs extremely fast
- Natural ingredients
- Softgel for easy swallow, easier absorption
- Medium chain triglycerides and an ingredient may need doctor approval in some circumstances
- A bit more expensive
Whether you’re looking to increase energy, begin a supplement regimen that will decrease high blood pressure or strengthen the heart, improve the appearance of your skin or help with an immune deficiency, CoQ10 is the wonder supplement you’ve been looking for.
Still, it can be confusing knowing which CoQ10 supplement is right for you. With our top ten list of excellent options, that search just got a lot less overwhelming. You can feel comfortable that our research has narrowed down your search, leaving you with a concise selection of safe, healthy and easy-to-absorb options.
Look forward to feeling healthier, more energetic and even happier once your body has experienced the overall wellness associated with this supplement!
The Criteria We Used to Find the Top 10 Best CoQ10 Supplements
CoQ10 is an evidence-based, researched powerhouse supplement. The fact that it’s naturally found in every cell within the human body makes this less of a surprise. Understanding that certain conditions like heart failure, Parkinson’s Disease and simply aging can result in a deficiency explains why it’s vital to supplement it back into our bodies for optimum health.
There are thousands of options for this supplement on the market. And not all of these are created equal. That’s why we investigated hundreds of brands, formulations and blends, and even costs before deciding on which supplements could be called the “best of the best”.
There are many reasons why individuals would benefit from CoQ10. Runners often take this supplement following marathons to increase energy and assist with recovery. The European Journal of Nutrition published a study citing that CoQ10 ‘aided runners in faster post-workout recovery and decreased muscle damage’ (EJofN, 2014). Other clinical trials and research shows that this supplement can prevent and assist in reversing serious heart disease. The list of health benefits goes on and on; healthier skin, better sight, lung capacity…
Our goal was to determine which factors resulted in the highest quality product. Here’s what we know you should look for first:
Absorption
It’s vital that users consider the delivery system used to get the this nutrient into the body. First, there are two types of this supplement: ubiquinone and ubiquinol. Ultimately, whichever type you choose, the body intelligently converts one to the other, depending upon which is naturally lacking. Nevertheless, each type initially has its benefits with regard to delivery. Ubiquinone is oxidized, which also means its an electron acceptor and considered a stable form of CoQ10. Ubiquinol is a reduced form, a form understood to be an electron donor. It is less stable but also serves as an excellent antioxidant, and in some studies has shown to absorb faster while resisting harmful free radicals. In some part, understanding your individual goals will help you to decide upon one that is oxidized or one that is a preferred antioxidant; keeping in mind that both work together in the body, and ultimately “balance”.
It is also important to take the coenzyme q10 with meals. Not only can this help the stomach stay calmer after ingestion, but because it works with cell parts that convert food to energy, food is necessary to assist in optimum absorption throughout the body.
Softgels are typically easier and faster to absorb than powder capsules. However, note the ingredients before making a final selection; a powder version with fish oil will absorb well because it’s fat soluble. And be sure to check out the shell’s ingredients (no need for preservatives, yeast, wheat or synthetic materials).
Formulation
Be sure to check out the list of ingredients associated with any formulation of this product. It is totally unnecessary to combine yeast, wheat, sugars or any type of synthetic preservative with your blend. On the other hand, certain combinations can assist with absorption. For example, Bioperine, a patented extract derived from black pepper fruits (Piper nigrum) is used as a bioavailability enhancer. Generally, when used in combination with other nutrients, it will increase absorption by 30% or more!
Selecting a product that includes Olive or Fish Oil can also help the supplement to absorb and act more efficiently. Gelatin, purified water or glycerin are each components of a healthy blend, typically. While they assist in filling and preserving, they are not synthetic and pose no harm to the body.
Many brands have organic options available. Knowing that the list of ingredients are mindfully produced means even safer digestion and impact on the body and cells.
Dose/Safety
There is no “one correct dose” when it comes to your CoQ10. Though typical doses range from 45 milligrams to 1200 milligrams (for adults). At higher doses, expect to split between several meals and times each day. The most common dose is 100 – 200 milligrams per day. Physicians recommend that children up to the age of 18 receive a medical consultation prior to beginning this supplement, and that usually goes for adults taking more than 100-200 mg’s per day, also. It is imperative to examine additional ingredients to ensure zero contraindications with other prescribed medications or even supplements and food allergies.
Cost/Value
This, too can range as wide as the doses! However, it is possible to find “fair” pricing – our top ten contenders vary some but are each affordable. Look for the ratio of capsules to price. Some may seem pricier, but may provide a four or even six month supply! It’s also important to note the milligrams when making price point comparisons.
Other Factors to Consider When Selecting a CoQ10 Supplement
Keeping absorption, formulation, dose and cost at the forefront, it’s also worthwhile to consider a few other factors when selecting your coenzyme Q10 product. Who you are – your health, activities, and even fitness goals will play a role in why, how and which supplement you choose.
Diet and Lifestyle
How much CoQ10 you decide to add to your diet depends in part on the type of diet you already have. For example, excellent sources of this nutrient are found in tuna, mackerel, and salmon (and many other cold water fish). It’s also readily available in oils and some meats. If you find yourself lacking in these food groups, then consider a higher dose or possibly taking it more than once a day. If your diet is rich in these foods, a lower dose will likely suffice. Again, checking with your doctor to be sure is always best!
Second, if your lifestyle is active and you’re interested in a supplement to assist in fitness recovery or a slight boost in energy, consider a lower dose with a bioavailable delivery system that helps the nutrient to synthesize fast.
If your lifestyle is less active, a larger dose can help you build heart strength, increase higher energy and protect immunity so that you can ultimately feel healthier and achieve a new level of activity.
Health Goals
Choose a supplement that compliments your health needs with its unique design. Water and fat soluble coenzyme Q10 blends can help to repair damaged heart tissue – so look for brands that are both. Some research has shown that with just-right delivery, this enzyme might even replace tough-on-the-body statins!
For a tougher immunity, look for blends with additional vitamins, especially Vitamin E and C. And spread dosage out throughout each day for more consistency within the body.
Health Precautions
(pre-existing condition and potential effects and interactions)
CoQ10 has no known serious side effects; however medications have been known to negatively impact its levels. If you are taking a specific milligram for certain conditions, then be aware how other medicines may be altering that level. It is imperative to discuss this with your doctor to be sure that your nutrient is able to operate optimally. It’s also important to be aware of other ingredients in your blend. Sunflower oil may be a wrong fit for those with nut allergies, bovine gelatin is something for vegetarians to consider, and certain extracts may negatively interact with not only medicines but possibly other supplements.
FAQS
Q: What happens if my CoQ10 levels are low?
It is common to experience low energy with low levels of CoQ10, and also more joint and muscle cramping. Most importantly, low levels impact the body’s production of cellular injury which results in a host of potential health risks, to include serious heart problems.
Q: Is there a test to see if I have low levels of CoQ10?
Yes. Many chain laboratories test for low levels of CoQ10. However, the test measures levels found in the blood, not within heart tissue. If blood tests exhibit lower levels, this can be used by your physician to at least in part determine if heart (or other conditions) are being negatively affected by the low levels. This can also help your doctor to make important decisions about statins and other drugs you may use to “treat” conditions that at least in part can be rectified by stabilizing coenzyme Q10.
Q: Why is CoQ10 so necessary?
Because of its natural occurrence in our cells, when it begins to dissipate our body doesn’t operate as well. Something as “simple” as aging can cause this. High levels of CoQ10 are found in the tissues of organs that are vital to our survival – the heart and liver, for example. Operating as a free radical scavenger and fat metabolizer and vital to the production of crucial enzymes means that the redelivery can mean an increase of better health and age prevention.
Q: Is there a “best way” to take CoQ10?
The best way to deliver this nutrient to your body depends upon your body, individually. For example, if you have nut allergies, avoid products with sunflower. If you are a vegan, vegetarian or Kosher avoid gelatin comprised of bovine. Softgels and ingredients like olive oil make digestion simple and easy on the stomach, but some prefer smaller capsules without oils. Know who you are, and how your other medications and lifestyle/diet might contradict or complement a specific formulation for best results.
Q: When is a good age to begin taking CoQ10?
As the adage explains, ‘it’s never too late…’ to begin! But it can be too early. For those under the age of 18, it is important to discuss taking any form of CoQ10 with your physician, first. It is often typical for those between 18-40 to take a lesser dose than older adults, with the exception of those suffering from specific health conditions that may require alternative doses.
Q: How and when do I take CoQ10?
It can be taken alone, with water or with a meal; however it is recommended that it be taken with meals, particularly those with fats to help with digestion and absorption. It can be taken with oils used on salads as dressing, fish/and fish oils, coconut or flax seed oil. Most importantly, when you’ve selected your preferred brand of CoQ10, refer first to the specific instructions provided as part of its own label.
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