Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 (known as CoQ10 or ubiquinone) is naturally occurring in the body. We can get more of this helpful antioxidant from foods in our diets, including oily fish like salmon and tuna, or in even higher amounts by taking a supplement. Coenzyme Q10 helps the body to create an important bodily compound, adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is responsible for providing our cell’s main energy source and driving many of our biological occurrences, like muscle contraction. Numerous studies conducted on the benefits of CoQ10 for those suffering from migraines have been very positive. Additionally, the studies showed CoQ10 to be generally well-tolerated. Thus far, all participants in studies have shown no adverse reactions while receiving supplementation.

 

 

CoQ10 Reduced Chronic Migraines and Inflammation

Doctors don’t know if migraines develop from problems in blood vessels, brain nerve cells, or both. However, they all agree the condition is inflammatory. Regular, occasional headaches occur when blood vessels constrict to cause pain. In contrast, chronic migraines occur when blood vessels dilate too much.

In this study, 45 non-menopausal women, ages 18 to 50 with episodic migraines, took a placebo or 400 mg of CoQ10 per day while using standard migraine medication as needed. After three months, compared to placebo, those taking CoQ10 reported significantly fewer migraines, with less severe pain and other symptoms, and resolving more quickly.

In those taking CoQ10, doctors also observed a decrease in two inflammatory factors — calcitonin gene-related peptide, or CGRP — which dilates peripheral and cerebral blood vessels and likely plays a key role in developing migraines; and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFa), which can stimulate CGRP. Doctors said CoQ10 has anti-inflammatory properties that may provide significant benefits to migraine patients.

Reference: Nutritional Neuroscience; January, 2018, No. 1421039