Athletes of all levels may have a new nutritional ally in the fight against muscle fatigue and injury. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the British Journal of Nutrition reported that elite Japanese kendo athletes who consumed coenzyme Q10 during 20 days of rigorous training had significantly lower levels of key markers associated with increased wear and tear of muscles, than those who did not supplement with CoQ10.The study, which was conducted by researchers from University of Tsukuba, University of Tokyo, and Kobe Gakuin University, adds to a growing body of research supporting the benefits of CoQ10 in sports nutrition.
CoQ10 is produced throughout the body, and is concentrated in the mitochondria, which act as the “power plants” of cells. CoQ10 plays a vital role in energy production, and it also acts as a potent antioxidant.
In addition to supporting sports performance, numerous studies also indicate that CoQ10 may offer a variety of cardio-protective benefits, as well.
Primary dietary sources of CoQ10 include oily fish, organ meats such as liver, and whole grains. CoQ10 is also available in supplement form, including the following Reliv products: ReversAge®, ProVantage®, SoySentials®, and CardioSentials®.
SOURCES:
- Daniells, Stephen, “CoQ10 may cut muscle injuries for athletes.” Nutraingredients-USA.com. May 5, 2008.
- British Journal of Nutrition
Published online ahead of print, doi:10.1017/S0007114508926544
“Reducing exercise-induced muscular injury in kendo athletes with supplementation of coenzyme Q10”
Authors: M. Kon, K. Tanabe, T. Akimoto, F. Kimura, Y. Tanimura, K. Shimizu, T. Okamoto, I. Kono