Q10 Skin Benefits
Produced by the human body, and available in supplement form, Coenzyme Q10 is touted as a beneficial supplement for all kinds of diseases and conditions (Alzheimer's, asthma, angina, chronic fatigue syndrome and even cocaine addiction). But according to the Mayo Clinic, the verdict is still out if Q10 can really improve any of these conditions. However, the fact that Q10 has antioxidant properties isn't in question.
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Coenzyme Q10 Defined
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According to the University of Maryland's Medical Center, Coenzyme Q10 is found in the center of a cell located in our body: the mitochondria cell. Q10, one of the natural components of the mitochondria cell, plays a role in the formation of an important molecule called adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is responsible for several processes that occur in the body (like protein production and muscle contraction). In addition, Q10 also serves another role, and one that benefits the skin; it is an antioxidant.
Antioxidants and Skin
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Many things pollute our environment and affect our bodies: toxins like cigarette smoke, air pollution, ultraviolet light and radiation. And these pollutants can also damage our body as well---they can cause disease and accelerate the aging process. This damage occurs when the free radicals---which already exist in our body to a smaller degree---are increased in number by our contact with these toxins. But antioxidants, like those found in Q10, fight free radicals, thus helping to fight the aging process (like that which can occur with facial skin).
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Q10 Skin Benefits
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While some researchers believe that Q10 is beneficial in treating and preventing heart disease, and other conditions, no studies to date confirm this definitively. However, Q10 is recognized as aiding the immune system, increasing body energy and working as an antioxidant. And since having a healthy immune system helps with maintaining the health of our skin---and antioxidants help the body fight free radicals and aging of the skin---increasing the level of Q10 in the body by taking a supplemental form of it, does provide skin benefits.
Forms Available
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Q10 is available in several supplemental forms. It is available as an oral spray, gel caps, hard-shell capsules and tablets. And since it has skin benefits, you can find it added to some cosmetics as well. In addition to supplemental form, Q10 is also found in some foods, which, when eaten, aids in the natural production of this enzyme in the body.
Foods Containing Q10
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Salmon and tuna are two fish that contain Q10, but other oily fish do too. The health benefits of eating salmon and tuna are already common knowledge, but coupled with their ability to increase Q10 levels, naturally, in the body---and the resulting benefit to the skin---is another reason to have those two recommended servings of fish each week.
Organ meats (like liver) contain Q10 too, but eating liver is not good for those who suffer from heart disease. Fortunately, Q10 can also be found in whole grains as well, providing vegetarians with an option to increase their levels through diet.
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