A new study published in Redox Report has found that ubiquinol supplementation can prevent the depletion of the antioxidant CoQ10 in the body during intense exercise, and can enhance antioxidant levels in healthy athletes. It was also shown to improve the running pace of the athletes compared with placebo.
Ubiquinol, the active and readily bioavailable form of CoQ10, helps to support cellular energy throughout the body and is vital for optimal health and energy levels. It is a potent antioxidant, and previous research has shown it can help boost the power of production in trained athletes, as well as lower the degree of inflammation after exertion and intense physical exercise, helping to aid with muscle recovery.
In the new study conducted in Italy, 21 male athletes from the Stamura rugby team in Ancona underwent a trial with ubiquinol supplementation for one month. Participants were randomised between two groups, taking either 200mg of ubiquinol per day, or a placebo. After the first month, both groups underwent a 60-day ‘washout period’, stopping all medication in preparation for the crossover phase, in which the ubiquinol and placebo groups were switched.
The results showed that ubiquinol supplementation helped to minimise the depletion of CoQ10 – a normal response to exercise – and enhanced antioxidant levels in the body, proving its use as an efficient method to optimise CoQ10 status in physically active people. Further, when the participants undertook running training, those treated with ubiquinol appeared to keep a higher running pace after five and 15 minutes of running, compared to those taking the placebo.
Ubiquinol is found naturally in foods such as red meat, spinach, sardines and wholegrains. However, in order to receive the minimum required amount each day, people would need to eat up to 3.5kg of red meat, 5.7kg of chicken or 50 cups of spinach daily.
