Q10 Protects the Kidneys

Q10 is a versatile anti-aging and cardiovascular support energizer.  Several new studies show that it is a potent protector of the kidneys.  This is good news since the decline of kidney health is associated with many metabolic and cardiovascular problems and is common in millions of Americans.

The first study was performed with rats that had one kidney removed, a standard test model to help determine kidneys stressors in experiments.  Three groups composed the study; normal salt intake, high salt intake, and high salt intake with the ubiquinol form of Q10¹.  High salt intake increased blood pressure and caused significant production of superoxide free radicals, signifying kidney damage was occurring.  The ubiquinol Q10 group that was also on high salt did not develop high blood pressure or superoxide free radical damage – demonstrating that Q10 could protect the kidney’s from one of the most common forms of kidney stress in society today. 

In another animal study mice were exposed to the chemo drug cisplatin², which is known to damage the kidneys as an undesirable side effect.  In control mice, cisplatin induces free radical damage, inflammation, and consequent pathological tissue damage to the kidneys.  In mice given Q10 all of these adverse side effects are stopped.  Especially important is that Q10 was found to regulate the core inflammatory gene signal known as NF-kappaB Protein complex that controls DNA transcription and is involved with cellular responses to stress, cytokines, free radicals, UV radiation, oxidized LDL, and infections. while reducing unfriendly nitric oxide (iNOS Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase. This enzyme influences genes located in the neuro-immune and cardiovascular system and provides immune defense against pathogens and contributes to disease progression including neurogenic inflammation (iNOS2). ).

Your kidneys sit below your adrenal glands and are intimately involved with your adrenal, energy, and sex drive functions.  They are constantly filtering your blood and are therefore exposed to many toxins.  Damage to your kidney’s filtering system sets the stage for poor circulation, lower energy, and higher blood pressure.  Salt sensitivity (swelling from salt) is an obvious sign of weak kidneys, although many people have lessened kidney function and still seem to be able to handle some salt.  Q10 is clearly a nutrient that can help your kidneys cope with stress.