CoQ10 & Gum Disease
Coenzyme Q10 is an enzyme involved in energy production and present in all cell membranes. And although CoQ10 is present in many foods, our body require more as we grow older because we are unable to manufacturer enough to meet our needs. Although found in nearly all tissues of the human body, the highest concentrations of CoQ10 are located in the heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas.
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What Is CoQ10?
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CoQ10, otherwise known as Coenzyme Q10, is a fat soluble antioxidant vitamin with the ability to combat free-radical attacks. CoQ10 can not only help prevent but, in some cases, reverse inflammatory gum disease. It has the ability to recycle another fat soluble antioxidant; Vitamin E, and it's also being currently researched as a treatment for the advanced stages of breast cancer.
Why Supplement?
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Since our diet can only provide us with approximately half of our body's requirement for CoQ10, supplementation is generally recommended. However, foods which contain CoQ10 are: nuts, oily fish, green leafy vegetables, eggs, poultry and meats.
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CoQ10 and Gum Disease
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Gum diseases progresses in two stages, starting with gingivitis which can turn into periodontitis. Gingivitis is an inflammatory condition which usually involves red, puffy gums. Periodontitis frequently involves pain and loose teeth. Since diseased gum tissues are deficient in CoQ1, supplementation can be beneficial. Along with reducing bacterial contamination, CoQ10 has been shown to tighten teeth and reduce the pockets commonly associated with gum disease. A study in the 1970s conducted by E.G. Wilkinson et al, involved eight individuals under the care of periodontal disease, both pocket depth and the periodontal score decreased. The healing was deemed "extraordinarily effective." (E.G. Wilkinson et al, Bioenergetics in Clinical Medicine Adjunctive Treatment with CoQ in Peridontal Therapy, 1975).
The Causes of Gum Disease
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Improper oral hygiene is usually the cause of gum disease, however, other factors can contribute to its development. Gum disease can be the indication of a more serious underlying condition. Diabetes mellitus, vitamin deficiency, anemia and atherosclerosis have been shown to be causes of gum disease.
Side Effects, Interactions and Dosages
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Though considered to be safe when taken in the proper doses, reported side effects of CoQ10 are: stomach irritation, loss of appetite and nausea.
CoQ10 is not recommended for diabetics or those with hypoglycemia. Consult with your doctor prior to supplementing with CoQ10, or for anyone taking Coumadin (a medication given to individuals who are at risk for heart attack or stroke). The action of CoQ10 can also be effected by medication in the statin group, namely cholesterol lowering medication.
Dosages is generally 100 to 300 milligrams a day. Prior to taking any supplement, it's always best to consult with a licensed health care practitioner.
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