Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a naturally-occurring antioxidant that your body produces for the growth and maintenance of cells. CoQ10 offers a wide breadth of therapeutic applications that include energy metabolism, cardiovascular health, and neurodegenerative conditions. Natural levels of CoQ10 in your body decrease over time as you age. Research concludes that it is common for lower levels of CoQ10 in people with conditions, such as heart disease. However, CoQ10 has significant potential for being a strong preventative and therapeutic nutrient for many common eye health concerns including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, retinal ischemia, and macular degeneration.
CoQ10 promotes optimal blood flow and neutralizes free radicals to prevent oxidation of cells. One study showed that CoQ10 reduces corneal damages after UVB exposure by preserving mitochondrial function. These actions help prevent some eye disorders including:
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a disease marked by damage to the optic nerve caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye. CoQ10 supports mitochondrial function and is effective in reducing high intraocular pressure, thereby, reducing the risk of developing glaucoma and slowing the progression of existing glaucoma.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a condition that causes damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to poorly controlled blood sugar. CoQ10 helps reduce free radicals in the eye and improves the thickness of the retina. These actions help reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy.
Retinal Ischemia
Retinal ischemia is a condition that results from lack of oxygen in the retina. CoQ10 helps promote blood flow to the eyes to offer the much-needed oxygen to support retinal performance.
Macular Degeneration
Dry macular degeneration is a condition where parts of the macula get thinner and tiny clumps of protein called drusen grow, obstructing vision. CoQ10, when combined with acetyl-l-carnitine or omega-3 fatty acids, supports retinal functioning more than any of these nutrients on their own. These nutrients assist with mitochondrial fat metabolism to improve and stabilize vision in people with early-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This powerhouse combination of antioxidants improves the retinal pigment cell tissue function and reduces the drusen-covered area of the retina, providing protection from macular degeneration.
How to Increase Levels of CoQ10
CoQ10 is found in foods we eat including meat, fish, nuts, and colorful fruits and vegetables, but it is difficult to consume enough to significantly increase CoQ10 levels in your body — at least to levels that help support eye health and ward off ocular disease.
Viteyes® Optic Nerve Support
Support your eye health with powerful antioxidants that prevent oxidative damage while promoting blood flow to the eyes and circulation to the entire body with Viteyes® Optic Nerve Support. Taken as part of your daily regimen, these powerful supplements offer the recommended dose of coenzyme Q10 to support eye health and reduce the risk of eye disorders including glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. This formulation also includes omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, bilberry, grape seed, and ginkgo Biloba to support total eye health.
For more information about the benefits of CoQ10 on eye health and vision support, view these online resources.
Coenzyme Q10 in the Human Retina
Mitochondrial Dysfunctions and Role of Coenzyme Q10 in Patients with Glaucoma
CoQ10-Containing Eye Drops Prevent UVB-Induced Cornea Cell Damage and Increase Cornea Wound Healing by Preserving Mitochondrial Function
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