Discover now how statins deplete CoQ10 and how to replenish it (coenzyme Q10) in the body.
That can result in some side effects like feeling very tired, having muscle soreness as well as potential heart issues.
In this article, we’ll explore the symptoms of deficiency, and the best ways to restore CoQ10 levels naturally and through supplementation, generally how statins deplete CoQ10 and how to replenish it.
How Statins Deplete CoQ10 And How To Replenish It
Interference with CoQ10 Production
Statins work by blocking HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme in the liver that helps produce cholesterol.
However, this enzyme is also essential for the production of CoQ10. As a result, when statins reduce cholesterol levels, they also inadvertently lower the body’s natural CoQ10 levels.
Impact on Energy Levels
As a result of how statins deplete CoQ10 and how to replenish it, energy levels decrease in the body.
CoQ10 plays a crucial role in mitochondrial energy production. It helps generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cells.
When CoQ10 levels drop, the body struggles to produce energy efficiently, leading to fatigue and general weakness.
Increased Risk Of Muscle Pain
One of the most common bumps along the road with how statins deplete CoQ10 and how to replenish it, which people often hit, is pretty sore muscles and feeling weak.
This happens because CoQ10 is so important for muscle function, and when it runs low it can also spark inflammation and damage in muscle tissues.
In very serious cases, damage to muscle from statins called rhabdomyolysis can even cause kidney trouble.
Symptoms Of CoQ10 Deficiency
Here are some of the symptoms of how statins deplete CoQ10 and how to replenish it.
Fatigue & Weakness
Since CoQ10 is essential for mitochondrial function, low levels result in decreased cellular energy production.
This can cause chronic fatigue, low stamina, and overall weakness, making daily activities more difficult.
Muscle Pain & Cramps
Lots of people who take statins report having muscle pain, tightness and cramps, especially in their legs and backs.
These symptoms are linked to how statins deplete CoQ10 and how to replenish it, which is crucial for muscle repair and function.
Heart Health Issues
CoQ10 is especially important for the heart, which requires constant energy to pump blood.
Low CoQ10 levels can contribute to heart disease, high blood pressure, and even heart failure.
Some research suggests that CoQ10 supplementation may improve symptoms of congestive heart failure and reduce the risk of cardiac complications in statin users.
Best Ways To Replenish CoQ10 Levels
Here are some of the best ways to overcome how statins deplete CoQ10 and how to replenish it.
Take CoQ10 Supplements
One really effective way to get more CoQ10 levels back is through supplements.
Ubiquinol is the most bioavailable form of CoQ10, meaning the body absorbs it more efficiently compared to ubiquinone.
Studies suggest that CoQ10 supplementation may help reduce muscle pain and fatigue associated with statins, though results are mixed.
You can find the best CoQ10 supplements on our shop here!
Eat CoQ10-Rich Foods
While dietary sources don’t give us very high amounts of CoQ10, they really can help keep things balanced and healthy too. Foods high in CoQ10 include:
- Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, and mackerel)
- Organ meats (liver, heart, and kidney)
- Nuts and seeds (walnuts, pistachios, sesame seeds)
- Vegetables (spinach, cauliflower, and broccoli)
These foods can help naturally support the body’s CoQ10 levels alongside supplementation.
Exercise & Lifestyle Changes
Regular physical activity improves mitochondrial function, helping the body compensate for reduced CoQ10 levels.
Moderate exercise, like walking or swimming, can enhance energy production and muscle strength.
However, over-exercising can worsen muscle pain in statin users, so it’s important to start slow and build up gradually.
Consider Alternative Cholesterol-Lowering Methods
Statins deplete CoQ10 and how to replenish it can cause severe side effects.
If statins are causing severe side effects, talk to your doctor about alternatives.
Some folks get better results from using lower doses of statins, or perhaps they can find more benefit by trying another kind of statin or some other kind of cholesterol medicine like ezetimibe.
In some cases, a heart-healthy diet and exercise may be enough to manage cholesterol without the need for statins.
You can have your consultation at Welltopia here!
Final Thoughts
Statins lower cholesterol really well, but they can also really deplete CoQ10 and how to replenish it, which can cause fatigue, muscle pain, and some heart issues too.
To counteract this, supplementing with CoQ10, eating CoQ10-rich foods, and making lifestyle changes can help restore your energy levels and muscle health.
If you experience severe muscle pain or fatigue while taking statins, consult your doctor about potential solutions, including CoQ10 supplementation.
