One of the more popular supplements for overall health is Coenzyme Q10. Commonly called CoQ10, this nutrient occurs naturally in the cells of the body. It’s synthesized in the mitochondria, known as the “powerhouse of the cell.”
That’s where the body burns calories for fuel. CoQ10 has an important role in cellular energy production. Also, it’s used to support heart health and prevent free radical damage. Plus, it has several other health benefits.
The body’s natural levels of CoQ10 decline as you get older. This means supplementation is necessary.
This guide will review the best CoQ10 supplements on the market. Let’s take a look!
In a Hurry? Here is our top pick:
Best CoQ10 Supplements
- Essential Elements CoQ10 – Best Overall
- NutraBio CoQ10 – Best Label Disclosure
- Bulksupplements.com CoQ10 – Best Powder
- Garden of Life Raw CoQ10 – Best For Vegans
- NOW CoQ10 200mg – Best Value-Conscious
- NOW CoQ10 400 mg – Best Potency
- Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega + CoQ10 – Best Combo
- Thorne Research Q-Best 100™ – Best Absorption
- Global Healing CoQ10 – Best For Cellular Energy
- Qunol Liquid CoQ10 – Best Liquid
- Qunol Ultra CoQ10 – Best For Statin Medication Users
- Puritan’s Pride CoQ10 Plus Red Yeast Rice – Best For Heart Health
Reviews – Best CoQ10 Supplements
1. Essential Elements CoQ10 – Best Overall
Here’s a patented form of Coenzyme Q10 and our pick for best overall. Essential Elements CoQ10 has a dosage of 200mg of CoQsol® per soft gel.
This formula also contains patented Betatene® Vitamin A. Plus, there’s mixed tocopherol vitamin E. The only other ingredients are what’s used to make the soft gels.
This combination has impressive health benefits. First, it protects cells and dramatically improves antioxidant potency. Next, it promotes a healthy heart and supports energy production. Finally, it’s beneficial for cognitive health and function.
Due to the soft gels and added ingredients, it’s also more absorbable than regular Coenzyme Q10. Finally, Essential Elements CoQ10 follows GMP manufacturing guidelines.
PROS
- Enhanced Antioxidant Benefits
- Features Two Branded Ingredients
- Absorbs Better Than Regular Coenzyme Q10
CONS
- The Softgels May Be Too Large For Some Users
2. NutraBio CoQ10 – Best Label Disclosure
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NutraBio CoQ10 provides a dosage of 200mg per serving. This supplement also contains Bioperine® Black Pepper for improved absorption. This is important because Coenzyme Q10 does not absorb well. BioPerine ensures the CoQ10 is easily absorbed.
NutraBio uses ubiquinone, the most common form of CoQ10. It’s naturally fermented, which allows the production of Coenzyme Q10 in larger quantities.
As always, NutraBio uses full disclosure labeling. In this case, there’s 195mg of added rice flour. The rice flour fills up the rest of the capsule. This causes a downside of capsules being too large for some users.
Had NutraBio not used rice flour, the capsules would be much smaller, making them easier to swallow. Still, they disclose the exact amount of rice flour per capsule. This type of full disclosure is an overwhelming statement of quality and transparency.
PROS
- 200mg Coenzyme Q10 Per Capsule
- Fully Open-Label Right Down To The Capsule Filler Used
- Includes Bioperine Black Pepper
CONS
- The Capsules May Be Too Large For Some Users
3. Bulksupplements.com CoQ10 – Best Powder
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Here’s our pick for the best powdered Coenzyme Q10. Bulksupplements.com CoQ10 Powder supplies a dosage of 200mg per serving. One serving is a tenth of a teaspoon. There are no other ingredients.
CoQ10 Powder supports cardiovascular health and brain function. It also supports the health of vital organs, such as the lungs. Finally, Bulksupplements.com believes CoQ10 supports muscle weight.
One of the things that set Bulksupplements.com apart is its quality. This product is lab-verified. It’s also 3rd party tested for potency, quality, and purity.
Finally, it’s cGMP-compliant. This means it meets strict manufacturing guidelines. The packaging clearly displays the various seals that verify the company’s high standards.
PROS
- Powdered Coenzyme Q10 – Mix It With Any Beverage
- 200mg Per Serving
- 3rd Party Tested
CONS
- Some Users Feel The Packaging Could Use An Inner Liner
4. Garden of Life Raw CoQ10 – Best For Vegans
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Here’s a CoQ10 that’s the best choice for vegans. Garden of Life Raw CoQ10 uses a liquid delivery system. This system uses raw chia seed oil. It’s encased in a regular capsule, not a soft gel capsule.
The raw CoQ10 dosage is 200mg per serving. There is also a raw organic fruit and veggie blend consisting of 23 veggies and fruits.
Finally, there’s a 7mg raw probiotic blend. This combination provides the health benefits of typical CoQ10 supplements. This includes cardiovascular health, antioxidant protection, and cellular energy.
Plus, superfoods and probiotics are beneficial for digestion and overall good health.
Garden of Life Raw CoQ10 does not contain fillers. Finally, this supplement is 3rd party certified for quality, and it is vegan-certified by vegan.org.
PROS
- 100% Raw Ingredients – Certified Vegan
- 200mg Raw CoQ10
- Contains Chia Oil And Probiotics
CONS
- Some Users Find The Capsules Break Apart
5. NOW CoQ10 200mg – Best Value-Conscious
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Looking for the best value for the money? Here’s our pick for the best value-conscious CoQ10. NOW CoQ10 200mg is available in a 60 veggie capsule size. Other brands offer 60 capsules but only half the potency. That makes NOW the best value for your hard-earned money.
This is pharmaceutical grade QcQ10. All NOW Coenzyme Q10 supplements contain only the all-trans isomer form of Coenzyme Q10, which is produced by yeast fermentation. To clarify, the term “trans” simply means the CoQ10 is natural.
Like all NOW products, this is manufacturer-certified.
This means the entire manufacturing process undergoes inspection. Once inspected, it’s approved for use. Finally, NOW CoQ10 200mg is vegan and non-GMO.
PROS
- Good Value For The Money
- 60 Capsule Container
- Supports Cardiovascular Health
CONS
- The Capsules Are Too Big For Some Users
6. NOW CoQ10 400mg – Best Potency
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Here’s our best high potency CoQ10. NOW CoQ10 provides 400mg per soft gel capsule. This is a liquid delivery system using soft gel capsules. They are filled with CoQ10 suspended in Vitamin E and soy lecithin. This type of capsule absorbs faster than most other delivery formats.
Like other NOW CoQ10 products, this one is in the trans-isomer form. As noted, “trans” refers to the natural type of the CoQ10. This formula also includes vitamin E, which prevents oxidative damage from free radicals. It also contains sunflower lecithin. These compounds support better absorption as well as additional health benefits.
NOW products are GMP Quality Assured. This product is also non-GMO. Finally, there’s an image depicting the easy-to-swallow soft gel size on the label.
PROS
- 400mg CoQ10 Per Serving
- Also Contains Vitamin E And Soy Lecithin
- GMP Quality Assured Product
CONS
- The Soft Gels May Be Too Large For Some Users
7. Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega + CoQ10 – Best Combo
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Here’s our pick for the best CoQ10 combo. You can find CoQ10 combined with several compounds. Here, Nordic Naturals Ultimate combines it with 1280mg of Omega-3 fatty acids. This formula provides 100mg of CoQ10 per serving.
This combo supports heart health, antioxidant protection, and cell energy production.
Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega + CoQ10 is certified sustainable. It’s also non-GMO.
Finally, the Omega fatty acids are 90% triglycerides for best absorption. Also, this supplement is 3rd party tested for quality.
PROS
- Combines Omega-3s And Coenzyme Q10
- Supports Cardiovascular Health
- 3rd Party Tested
CONS
- Some Users Feel The Capsules Are Too Big
8. Thorne Research Q-Best 100™ – Best Absorption
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Here’s our pick for the best-absorbed CoQ10. Thorne Research Q-Best 100 is a branded product designed for 3x more absorption.
To achieve superior absorption, Q-Best 100 uses an exclusive tri-lipid, or fat-soluble, capsule delivery system. Two of the lipids in this unique approach maintain an even temperature of the CoQ10 crystals.
The third lipid is used to improve absorption. It does this by enhancing the transport of the CoQ10.
All Thorne research products undergo extensive testing. This product follows strict manufacturing guidelines. Also, Thorne Research partners with the Mayo Clinic for wellness research.
Finally, they are a proud US Olympic athlete sponsor.
PROS
- Features An Exclusive Branded Formula
- Uses A Fat-Soluble System For Superior Absorption
- All Natural
CONS
- Not Vegan-Friendly
9. Global Healing CoQ10 – Best For Cellular Energy
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Here’s a CoQ10 combo supplement that’s our pick for the best cellular energy support. Global Healing CoQ10 contains a patented form of CoQ10 called Kaneka Q10® Ubiquinone.
Plus, there is organic shilajit, which aids the absorption of Coenzyme Q10 into the mitochondria, which fuels energy output in the body.
Finally, there’s also BioPPQ®, a compound that supports brain health and mitochondria health. The combination of these ingredients promotes superior cellular energy production.
Finally, this supplement is gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan.
PROS
- Features Three Branded Ingredients
- Supports Cellular Health & Brain Health
- The Only CoQ10 Manufactured In The U.S.
CONS
- Some Users Found The Capsules Were Different Colors
10. Qunol Liquid CoQ10 – Best Liquid
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Do you have a hard time swallowing capsules? If so, Qunol Liquid CoQ10 is the best supplement choice for you. Plus, this product uses flexible dosing. One teaspoon supplies 100mg of CoQ10. Or, you can double it and get 200mg.
Coenzyme Q10 has an important role in 95% of the body’s production of energy. This includes the energy needed by our vital organs.
Qunol Liquid CoQ10 comes in orange-pineapple flavor and tastes delicious. Use it by itself or mix it with your favorite beverage. Take it before, with, or after a meal. Taking this, or any, CoQ10 with food improves absorption.
This product uses all-natural ingredients and it’s 100% water and fat-soluble.
PROS
- Features Flexible Dosing
- No Artificial Sweeteners Or Artificial Colors
- Take With Food For Better Absorption
CONS
- Some Users Don’t Like The Taste
11. Qunol Ultra CoQ10 – Best For Statin Medication Users
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Qunol Ultra CoQ10 soft gel capsules are the best Coenzyme Q10 supplement for users of statin medications because of their superior absorption.
As noted, these statin drugs reduce natural CoQ10 levels. Therefore, the addition of a CoQ10 supplement is usually suggested.
One soft gel provides 100 mg of CoQ10. It also supplies vitamin E. Qunol Ultra CoQ10 is both water and fat-soluble. That ensures it can dissolve in liquid and fat for full absorption.
Finally, this patented formula supports a healthy heart and the production of energy. It also acts as a potent antioxidant.
PROS
- Absorbs Better Absorption Than Other Forms Of CoQ10
- 100% Fat And Water Soluble
- Includes Supporting Nutrients
CONS
- Some Users Feel The E Is Not In An Active Form
12. Puritan’s Pride CoQ10 Plus Red Yeast Rice – Best For Heart Health
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Here’s our pick for the best heart health CoQ10 combination. Puritan’s Pride CoQ10 Plus Red Yeast Rice contains patented QSorb™ CoQ10. One serving provides 120mg.
There’s also 1200mg of Red Yeast Rice. This is an ingredient with a long history of use in Chinese medicine. Currently, Red Yeast Rice supplements are used to lower cholesterol.
According to the ad for this dietary supplement, the average intake of Coenzyme Q10 from food is 3-5 mg. Yet, we should be taking up to 600 mg daily. That’s why taking CoQ10 supplements is important.
QSorb soft gels are designed to promote good absorption. The pill size of this product is only one inch. That means most users should have no trouble swallowing it. Finally, this product contains zero artificial ingredients.
PROS
- Beneficial For Heart Function And Health
- Patented Form Of CoQ10
- Small Softgel Capsule Size
CONS
- Some Users Have A Hard Time Swallowing These Capsules
Buying Guide – How To Choose The Best CoQ10 Supplements?
What Is CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), is also known as ubiquinone. This is known as the oxidized form of CoQ10. It is a vitamin-like nutrient that occurs naturally in the body.
CoQ10 production declines as we age. Plus, low levels of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) are associated with some medical conditions. These include heart failure, other heart diseases, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes. Other conditions include migraines and high blood pressure.
As noted, if you take statin medications, they can deplete natural Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) levels. To avoid these drug interactions, a CoQ10 product is a good idea.
What Is Ubiquinol
As noted, there are two forms of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). As mentioned above, the ubiquinone form is an oxidized type of CoQ10. This is the most common type of CoQ10. The other type is the ubiquinol form. This is considered the reduced form of CoQ10. Despite how that may sound, ubiquinol is believed to have better absorption.
Beyond the claim of absorption, it doesn’t matter if you’re taking ubiquinol or ubiquinone. The body uses these two supplements the same.
What Are Common Foods That Contain CoQ10?
First, let’s be clear. Food that contains Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is not the best way to achieve optimal CoQ10 levels. Of course, feel free to eat these foods. However, as noted, most people only take in 3-5 mg of CoQ10 from food. By using CoQ10 supplements, you can take up to 600 mg per day.
That said, the best food sources include:
- Whole Grains
- Fish
- Chicken
- Vegetables
- Tree Nuts
- Plant Oils
- Seeds
You should include these foods in generous quantities in your diet.
What Are The Benefits Of CoQ10 Supplements
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is beneficial for several reasons. These include the following:
Supports Cellular Energy Production
When people think of energy, they may think of the energy they get from caffeine. In fact, there are several popular caffeine sources that people rely on. These products stimulate the central nervous system. That’s not the same type of energy a CoQ10 supplement provides.
As noted, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is involved in the natural production of energy in the body. The mitochondria are known as the “powerhouse of the cell”. This is because it converts food into usable energy. A good example of this is ATP. This is what your muscles use for energy.
Caffeine may increase alertness, but has nothing to do with cellular, or muscular, energy. Yes, there’s more to the natural energy systems of the body. Still, this is the basic idea of how a CoQ10 supplement promotes energy production.
Promotes Heart Health
Studies conducted by national institutes show that CoQ10 promotes heart health in older individuals. As noted, CoQ10 occurs naturally in the body and declines as you age.
Also, patients experiencing heart failure may benefit from CoQ10 supplements. However, more studies with CoQ10 possibly helping heart failure patients need to be done.
All of these are reasons why supporting the health of your heart through supplementing makes sense. (1)
Counters Statin Drug Side Effects
We have seen that statin drugs lower cholesterol. Yet they have several negative side effects. They also lower natural CoQ10 levels. As noted, taking a CoQ10 supplement helps counter side effects. It also maintains healthy levels of CoQ10.
Supports Cognitive Function
Some studies conducted by national institutes suggest that CoQ10 is beneficial for cognitive health.
Also, these studies suggest CoQ10 helps offset cognitive decline associated with aging. (2)
May Prevent Free Radical Damage
As a potent antioxidant, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) protects cells and fights free radicals. That’s one more reason to start using a supplement from this guide.
May Aid Certain Medical Conditions
As listed above, a CoQ10 supplement can aid several medical conditions in the body. Besides the noted heart and brain conditions, other conditions CoQ10 supplements are known for possibly helping include blood pressure.
Other conditions include diabetes. Consistent high blood sugar can cause oxidative stress. This in turn may lead to insulin resistance.
Among other things, insulin can help lower blood sugar. Insulin resistance means your body doesn’t use insulin efficiently. This leads to high blood sugar. Insulin resistance is a key aspect of type 2 diabetes.
Plus, CoQ10 helps lower oxidative stress. For this reason, adding a supplement may help people with diabetes deal with insulin resistance.
There are no other chronic diseases of the body that taking a CoQ10 supplement has been reported to significantly help. Other non-chronic diseases that CoQ10 could benefit from include gum disease.
Exercise Performance
Finally, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) may improve exercise performance. Still, more research needs to be done. In fact, there are clinical trials currently taking place by national institutes regarding CoQ10 and exercise performance.
Are There Any Side Effects From Using CoQ10?
CoQ10 supplements are considered to be generally safe with few side effects. However, be sure to discuss this and any supplements you’re considering with your doctor.
Safety And Side Effects
As noted, when used as directed, CoQ10 supplements have few adverse effects.
Mild side effects might include:
- Upper abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
Other rare cases of adverse effects may include:
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Skin itching
- Irritability
Interactions
Possible drug interactions include:
- Anticoagulants. CoQ10 might make blood thinners, such as warfarin, less effective.
What To Consider When Choosing CoQ10 Supplements
Type Of CoQ10
This not only covers the delivery system but also covers the version of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). You can choose capsules, soft gel capsules, powder, or liquid. If you don’t have a problem swallowing, capsules or soft gel capsules are a good choice. Remember, absorption will be improved if these are taken with food.
If you do have problems with pills, choose a liquid or powder. The advantage of a powder is that it’s unflavored. You can mix it with anything.
For example, you can add Bulksupplements.com CoQ10 Powder to any beverage. Or, add it to such foods as yogurt or oatmeal. Be sure to only use food that does not need to be heated or cooked.
There’s also Qunol Liquid CoQ10. It’s a great-tasting orange-pineapple flavor, so you can use it by itself.
Finally, there’s standard CoQ10 or one of the patented versions. For example, our best overall, Essential Elements CoQ10 uses patented CoQ10.
Gluten-Free, High-Quality Products
The brands in our guide are premium quality, gluten-free, highly pure products. Many of the brands in this guide feature lab testing and manufacturing verification.
Who Can Use CoQ10
As a dietary supplement, anyone 18 years and older can use Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplements. Still, older users may benefit a little more. This is because, as noted, natural levels in the body decline as you age.
Also, anyone interested in better heart health, lower cholesterol, and improved cognitive function should use CoQ10 supplements.
Plus, CoQ10 may be helpful for anyone with vision problems. Finally, it can help users that suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Bodybuilders, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts may benefit from using CoQ10. As noted, some studies show it supports exercise performance.
How To Use CoQ10 Supplements
Typical dosages may vary from 30 to 400 mg a day. The highest safe intake is 1200mg per day. Still, most users stay in the 100mg to 200mg range. Remember CoQ10 is found in the body from specific foods, so that counts towards your total intake.
With that said, follow the directions on the label of the product you purchase. As noted, CoQ10 supplements come in many different versions. Make sure you choose the delivery system that will be easiest for you to use.
Also, there are several combinational products available. These are for specialized purposes. Make sure you choose your CoQ10 product based on your needs. You can tailor your choice to a specific health condition. Or you can take CoQ10 supplements for general health and well-being.
Conclusion
Essential Elements CoQ10 features 200mg of patented CoQsol® per serving. It also has patented Vitamin A and Vitamin E. This impressive supplement enhances antioxidant and cognitive benefits.
Would you prefer a powder? As noted, Bulksupplements.com CoQ10 is unflavored. Mix it with your smoothie or protein shake. If you use a pre-workout, add it the next time you train.
Finally, do you want to know what’s in your CoQ10 supplement? NutraBio CoQ10 is a simple formula. Yet it includes the exact amount of everything in the product. There is no doubt about what you’re getting.
A CoQ10 supplement belongs in your wellness program. Use our guide and find the best one for you!
References:
- Alehagen, U., Aaseth, J., Alexander, J., & Johansson, P. (2018). “Still reduced cardiovascular mortality 12 years after supplementation with selenium and coenzyme Q10 for four years: A validation of previous 10-year follow-up results of a prospective randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial in elderly.” PloS one, 13(4), e0193120. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0193120
- Effects of Coenzyme Q10 in Early Parkinson Disease: Evidence of Slowing of the Functional Decline | Movement Disorders | JAMA Neurology | JAMA Network
