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What Is Coenzyme Q10 Gel?

Laura M. Sands
Laura M. Sands

Coenzyme Q10 gel is an antioxidant-rich, jelly-like substance which can be placed into a capsule. It can be ingested for internal use or used on the skin. Coenzyme Q10, commonly referred to as coQ10, is a substance naturally found in the human body, as it assists in converting food into useful energy. Many people use a coenzyme Q10 gel as a supplement to improve cardiovascular health, as well as strengthen the immune system and provide cellular energy. In addition to gel forms, CoQ10 may also be taken in tablet and powder forms.

People who take this gel often do so for the antioxidant benefits contained in a coenzyme Q10 supplement. Capsules filled with coenzyme Q10 gel are commonly sold in health food stores and in the vitamin section of many drug and grocery stores. A prescription is usually not needed, as coQ10 supplements are considered safe for most healthy adults.

Capsules filled with coenzyme Q10 gel are commonly sold in the vitamin section of many drug and grocery stores.
Capsules filled with coenzyme Q10 gel are commonly sold in the vitamin section of many drug and grocery stores.

Some people do, however, experience coenzyme Q10 side effects, such as mild stomach upset, nausea and insomnia. Headache, dizziness and skin rashes have also been reported by some taking coenzyme Q10. Health experts advise that people who are taking other medications for conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes should consult with a physician before taking a coenzyme Q10 gel supplement because it may interfere with the effectiveness of certain pharmaceutical drugs.

Coenzyme Q10 may be moderately effective at reducing wrinkles in the skin.
Coenzyme Q10 may be moderately effective at reducing wrinkles in the skin.

Among the many benefits of taking a coenzyme Q10 gel, however, are that it may lower blood pressure, may help restore the body after a rigorous workout and may be useful in guarding the body against harmful cancerous cells. Coenzyme Q10 gel is also present in many skin and facial treatments, as its rich antioxidant agents are purported to slow the aging process of the skin. Some also believe that it may be useful in fighting gum disease, but medical research does not support that claim. Known to also restore energy to the body’s cells, coenzyme Q10 gels may be useful to individuals suffering from fatigue.

Some people use coenzyme Q10 gel to help forestall periodontal disease.
Some people use coenzyme Q10 gel to help forestall periodontal disease.

Many prefer taking coenzyme Q10 gel because it is believed that this form absorbs more quickly into the body. Other ways of taking it, however, include a dry powdered form, as well as a tablet form. A diet high in foods containing coenzyme Q10 may also be of use to those seeking the benefits of its high antioxidant properties. Some of the foods high in coQ10 include beef liver and certain types of fish, as well as fish oils.

Discussion Comments

SarahGen

Has anyone tried opening up a gel capsule and applying it on skin?

I do this with vitamin E capsules all the time, it works great. I know that coenzyme q10 is very good for skin and can reduce wrinkles and blemishes. I'm just curious if anyone has done this before and if it's safe.

candyquilt

@turquoise-- Coenzyme q10 gel is what is found in the soft-gels. Soft-gels are better than tablets because they get absorbed faster. I personally think that they are easier to swallow too.

I've never taken coenzyme q10 in powder form but I wouldn't want to because I imagine that it doesn't taste very good. Plus, it might be hard to take the right dose.

I've been taking coenzyme q10 soft gels for a few months now and I think they work great. Just make sure to follow the dose instructions and don't take more than recommended. Coenzyme q10 is fat soluble so the excess gets stored in the body.

turquoise

Is coenzyme q10 in gel form better than tablets or powder? Is there a reason why I should take it in this form?

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    • Capsules filled with coenzyme Q10 gel are commonly sold in the vitamin section of many drug and grocery stores.
      By: diego cervo
      Capsules filled with coenzyme Q10 gel are commonly sold in the vitamin section of many drug and grocery stores.
    • Coenzyme Q10 may be moderately effective at reducing wrinkles in the skin.
      By: Piotr Marcinski
      Coenzyme Q10 may be moderately effective at reducing wrinkles in the skin.
    • Some people use coenzyme Q10 gel to help forestall periodontal disease.
      By: CandyBox Images
      Some people use coenzyme Q10 gel to help forestall periodontal disease.
    • Coenzyme Q10 side effects may include insomnia.
      By: tiplyashina
      Coenzyme Q10 side effects may include insomnia.
    • People with high blood pressure should consult with a doctor before using coenzyme Q10 gel.
      By: Rido
      People with high blood pressure should consult with a doctor before using coenzyme Q10 gel.
    • Coenzyme Q10 side effects may include headache.
      By: tab62
      Coenzyme Q10 side effects may include headache.