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How Do I Choose the Best Coenzyme-A Supplement?

Emma Miller
Emma Miller

Coenzyme-A is a coenzyme that is thought to be at the center of metabolic processes in the body. Supplements of coenzyme-A might help chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers, people who are dealing with high levels of stress as well as those who have coenzyme-A deficiencies. When choosing a coenzyme-A supplement, it is important to check with one's doctor and investigate about the available options.

An essential enzyme, coenzyme-A is thought to be the impetus that triggers other enzymes into action. It is believed to be a catalyst for chemical reactions in the body and is necessary for the successful conversion of nutrients — such as fat, carbohydrates and protein — into energy. Adequate coenzyme-A levels are needed for efficient fatty acid metabolism as well as for optimal absorption and utilization of coenzyme-Q10. Scientific studies indicate that coenzyme-A and coenzyme-Q10 work synergistically. Supplementation with both coenzyme-A and coenzyme-Q10 might be helpful in optimizing energy production in the body and lessening the symptoms of people who are suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome.

It's wise to consult your physician before taking coenzyme-A or other dietary supplements.
It's wise to consult your physician before taking coenzyme-A or other dietary supplements.

Coenzyme-A deficiency is not common. If it does exist however, it might lead to fatigue, generalized muscle aches and metabolic disorders. Supplementation can improve deficiency-induced symptoms. Coenzyme-A is necessary for the synthesis of the hormone melatonin, which plays a very important part in regulating the sleep cycle.

Coenzyme-A is believed to help lower high cholesterol. The coenzyme also can be beneficial for athletes because it helps optimize energy conversion and energy use in the body. The coenzyme may also help to reduce the effects of stress.

Taking coenzyme-A along with coenzyme-Q10 can help someone suffering from chronic fatigue.
Taking coenzyme-A along with coenzyme-Q10 can help someone suffering from chronic fatigue.

Supplements of this coenzyme are available in pill or capsule form. There have been very few documented side effects of coenzyme-A supplements, but high doses might cause diarrhea and nausea. Time-release capsules, which release the compound slowly over an extended period of time, might be preferable to quick-release supplements, especially for individuals who are prone to gastrointestinal upset.

You should make sure the dose of coenzyme-A is not above the recommended daily allowance of 1,000 milligrams.
You should make sure the dose of coenzyme-A is not above the recommended daily allowance of 1,000 milligrams.

Adequate vitamin B5 levels are needed for coenzyme-A synthesis in the body. It is possible for a coenzyme-A supplement to contain the enzyme’s precursor, vitamin B5, instead of coenzyme-A. Compounds that are rich in coenzyme-A generally are preferable to those that contain vitamin B5. As with all medications and supplements, it is vital to check with one's doctor before starting on a new supplement regiment.

Discussion Comments

anon996377

NO SUPPLEMENT EXISTS THAT CONTAINS REAL COENZYME A. None. Not a single one. Why? Because Coenzyme A is extremely expensive. 1000 mgs of pure Coenzyme A would cost you well over $1000. If you look closely at any Coenzyme A supplement label, you will see that none of them actually contain Coenzyme A. They usually contain a proprietary mix that "helps your body make more Coenzyme A" or some other ridiculous statement like that.

All living organisms process fatty acids. Coenzyme A is required in these metabolic pathways. Therefore, if you eat anything that used to be alive, plant or animal, you are consuming plenty of Coenzyme A. The only way to be Coenzyme A deficient is to stop eating.

(Source: PhD in Biochemistry, and studies on Coenzyme A formed a majority of my doctoral thesis.)

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    • It's wise to consult your physician before taking coenzyme-A or other dietary supplements.
      By: Ariwasabi
      It's wise to consult your physician before taking coenzyme-A or other dietary supplements.
    • Taking coenzyme-A along with coenzyme-Q10 can help someone suffering from chronic fatigue.
      By: jedi-master
      Taking coenzyme-A along with coenzyme-Q10 can help someone suffering from chronic fatigue.
    • You should make sure the dose of coenzyme-A is not above the recommended daily allowance of 1,000 milligrams.
      By: monticellllo
      You should make sure the dose of coenzyme-A is not above the recommended daily allowance of 1,000 milligrams.
    • Those who are dealing with high levels of stress may benefit from a coenzyme-A supplement.
      By: Mitarart
      Those who are dealing with high levels of stress may benefit from a coenzyme-A supplement.
    • Muscle aches may occur as a result of a Coenzyme-A deficiency.
      By: inesbazdar
      Muscle aches may occur as a result of a Coenzyme-A deficiency.
    • A doctor can help an individual choose the best coenzyme-A supplement.
      By: Andy Dean
      A doctor can help an individual choose the best coenzyme-A supplement.
    • Coenzyme-A is necessary to synthesize melatonin, which helps regulate a person's sleep cycle.
      By: Karen Winton
      Coenzyme-A is necessary to synthesize melatonin, which helps regulate a person's sleep cycle.