CoQ10 and Fertility
What is CoQ10:
CoQ10 is a source of energy for the eggs, supporting both egg maturation and embryo quality. The energy contained within the egg supports embryo growth for the first 7 – 10 days of life, from the moment of fertilization through implantation. This energy drives embryo development, including the normal replication of chromosomes that results in a healthy baby. The research on CoQ10 and fertility suggests supplementation leads to more successful pregnancies.
The many benefits of CoQ10:
- Promotes healthy eggs
- Improves embryo quality
- Prevents chromosomal defects
- Increases successful pregnancies
Why take CoQ10 supplements:
CoQ10 plays a critical role in energy production within the cells, yet the natural presence of CoQ10 in the body decreases after age 20. Research shows CoQ10 supplementation has a positive impact on pregnancy success, especially in women over the age of 35.
Taking extra CoQ10 is particularly helpful in situations where the quality of the eggs may already be compromised, including:
- Diminished ovarian reserve
- PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome)
- Endometriosis
- Painful periods
Best sources of CoQ10:
While our bodies do make CoQ10, natural production decreases with age. CoQ10 is available in food from sources like fatty fish, organ meats and whole grains. However, the amount of CoQ10 reasonably sourced from food is often insufficient to maintain optimal levels in the body for fertility. Supplements can provide the levels needed to promote fertility and a healthy pregnancy.
While there are many forms of CoQ10 available, only a few are easy for the body to absorb. CoQ10 is fat soluble, and the best absorbed CoQ10 has been manufactured into tiny droplets, or “micronized,” to increased surface area for the best absorption. When researching which CoQ10 product to purchase, you want to find one that is micronized and easy for the body to absorb.
We recommend:
3 caps daily of 200 mg Q-Evail, By Desings For Health
3 – 5 caps daily of 125 mg Neo-Q 10, By Theralogix
How long do you need to take supplements?
Any time is a good time to start. Eggs take 3 – 4 months to mature prior to ovulation, and the best results from taking CoQ10 start to show up after supplementing for 3 – 4 months.
The good news is that CoQ10 is supporting the health of all the cells in your body, not only your eggs, and these benefits continue to increase over time. Once you start taking CoQ10, you’ll want to keep taking it until you become pregnant, at which time you may reduce the dosage or discontinue use.
What else can I do to support the quality of my eggs?
CoQ10 is just one of many ways to support egg quality. There are many other nutritional ways to support egg health, along with acupuncture and lifestyle. If you are in the San Francisco East Bay we invite you to book an appointment with us.
Please visit our shop page here to learn more about our recommend vitamins and supplements.
Leslie Oldershaw, L.Ac.
Medical director
Fertility Acupuncturist East Bay
510-595-1175
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