CoQ10 + L-Carnitine and why together
Two important substances for better Mitochondrial function and why there is synergy among these two.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and L-Carnitine are two popular dietary supplements often used for boosting energy, supporting heart health, and improving exercise performance. Though they work differently in the body, they are sometimes taken together due to their complementary roles in energy metabolism. CoQ10 is not a vitamin by definition as we can make quantities ourselves in a health body, but it certainly acts as one when there is a deficiency. (continued)
One of the top two coQ10 depleting drugs are in the statin class (for cholesterol) and the bisphosphonate class (for bone resorption). Other things can deplete coQ10. L-Carnitine is an amino acid and has a big part to play in mitochondrial function. However, too large a daily dose can have a negative impact on thyroid function. Both of these agents were brought to the minds in our nation decades ago by the writing of a prominent A4M doctor, Dr. Stephen Sinatra.
🧬 Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
What it is:
A fat-soluble compound naturally produced by the body, found in mitochondria, where it plays a key role in ATP (energy) production. Found in larger quantities in organ meats. In plant form it can be harvested by the fermentation process in tobacco leaves. Some of the best coQ10 come out of the Japanese manufacturers. Easily degraded it must be kept away from ‘‘air’’ and often a little bit of vitamin E is placed with it to avoid oxidation.
Main roles:
Helps convert food into energy (ATP) in the Mitochondria (Krebs Cycle).
Acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage.
Supports heart health, especially in people with heart failure or those taking statins (which may lower CoQ10 levels). Can assist naturally in those with HTN (hypertension) and CHF (congestive heart failure).
Common uses:
Heart failure, high blood pressure
Statin-induced muscle pain (statin myopathy and coQ10 depletion; smart doctors will co-prescribe coQ10 if they find it necessary to prescribe a statin class drug)
Migraine prevention
Chronic fatigue
Gingival (gum) disease
Athletic performance (mild evidence)
Dosing:
Commonly 60–400 mg/day, often taken with food to improve absorption.
No known toxicity.
🔥 L-Carnitine
What it is:
An amino-acid-like compound that helps transport long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they can be burned for energy.
Main roles:
Aids in fat metabolism and energy production.
Supports muscle function.
May reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery after intense workouts.
Common uses:
Athletic performance and recovery
Fatigue (especially in older adults or those with chronic illness)
Certain heart conditions (e.g., angina, heart failure)
Male infertility (some evidence for improved sperm quality)
Cardiac dysrhythmias (A.fib, A.flutter, etc.)
Part of a Trifecta: TAC: Taurine, Arginine, Carnitine - for heart rate/rhythm issues.
Overactive Thyroid (Graves’ Disease) to help with other agents to quiet down the thyroid (in place of Tapazole/methimazole).
Dosing:
Typically, 250–2,000 mg/day depending on form and purpose. Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) crosses the blood-brain barrier and may help with brain fog and mental fatigue.
🧪 CoQ10 + L-Carnitine: Synergy?
They both support mitochondrial energy production, which is vital for muscle cells (especially the heart).
Some small studies show combined supplementation may benefit people with cardiovascular disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, or mitochondrial disorders/dysfunction.
Quality dietary supplements must be taken and coQ10 can degrade quickly; 90% of dietary supplements sold over the counter are of lesser quality so best to source your supplements here.