CoQ10 and Statin Medications

 CoQ10 and Heart Failure

People with heart failure have been found to have lower levels of CoQ10 in heart muscle cells. Double-blind research suggests that CoQ10 may reduce symptoms related to heart failure, such as shortness of breath, difficulty sleeping, and swelling. CoQ10 is thought to increase energy production in the heart muscle, increasing the strength of the pumping action. Recent human studies, however, haven't supported this.

In one study, 641 people with congestive heart failure were randomized to receive either CoQ10 (2 mg per kg body weight) or a placebo plus standard treatment. People who took the CoQ10 had a significant reduction in symptom severity and fewer hospitalizations.

In another study, 32 patients with end-stage heart failure awaiting heart transplantation received either 60 mg of CoQ10 or a placebo for 3 months. Patients who took the CoQ10 experienced a significant improvement in functional status, clinical symptoms, and quality of life.

 CoQ10 and Parkinson’s Disease

Lower levels of CoQ10 have also been observed in people with Parkinson's disease. Preliminary research has found that increasing CoQ10 may increase levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is thought to be lowered in people with Parkinson's disease. It has also been suggested that CoQ10 might protect brain cells from damage by free radicals.

A small, randomized controlled trial examined the use of 360 mg CoQ10 or a placebo in 28 treated and stable Parkinson's disease patients. After 4 weeks, CoQ10 provided a mild but significant significant mild improvement in early Parkinson's symptoms and significantly improved performance in visual function.

A larger 16 month trial funded by the National Institutes of Health explored the use of CoQ10 (300, 600 or 1200 mg/day) or a placebo in 80 patients with early stage Parkinson's disease. The results suggested that CoQ10, especially at the 1200 mg per day dose, had a significant reduction in disability compared to those who took a placebo.

 CoQ10 and Gum Disease

Studies have shown that people with gum disease tend to have low levels of CoQ10 in their gums.  A small study looked at the topical application of CoQ10 to the periodontal pocket. Ten male periodontitis patients with 30 periodontal pockets were selected. During the first 3 weeks, the patients applied topical CoQ10. There was significant improvement in symptoms.

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup fresh orange juice, divided

1 Granny Smith apple, unpeeled, cored, and shredded

1 lb. carrots (about 4 large carrots), peeled and shredded

1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

3 Tbsp. chopped fresh cilantro

1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds

3 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

Freshly ground black pepper 

 1. In a small bowl, combine dried cranberries with 1/4 cup orange juice; set aside.

2. In a large bowl, toss apple with remaining 1/4 cup orange juice.  Mix in carrots, red onion, cilantro and pumpkin seeds.

3. Drain cranberries, reserving juice.  Add cranberries to apple-carrot mixture.

4. Whisk together reserved orange juice and olive oil.  Pour dressing over slaw.  Toss well to combine, and season to taste with black pepper.

 

Makes 8 servings.

Per serving: 136 Calories, 6g Total Fat, 1g Saturated Fat, 0mg Cholesterol, 2g Protein, 20g Carbohydrate, 3g Fiber, 41mg Sodium

 

Mocha Chocolate Mousse

Take advantage of the benefits of cocoa by treating yourself to a decadent dessert! Cocoa is high in flavanoids, powerful cancer-fighting antioxidants. Give this dairy-free Mocha Chocolate Mousse a try... it’s smooth, rich, and creamy. Decorate with fruit and enjoy cold!

Ingredients:

1 pkg (9 oz) dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 Tbs. extra firm silken tofu
1 Tbs. instant coffee or expresso (freeze dried granules)
2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/8 tsp. nutmeg
1 3/4 cups soy creamer or soymilk

Directions:

1. In a food processor or blender, combine chocolate chips, tofu, coffee, vanilla, and nutmeg.
2. In a separate bowl or pot, heat soymilk or creamer until almost boiling (either in microwave or on stovetop).
3. Carefully add the creamer to the food processor and blend on high speed until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. Refrigerate mousse until it sets (at least 2 hours).

Check out this and other great vegan recipes at www.Meatout.org!

 
Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash

From edenfoods.com

2 cups Eden Organic Quinoa, leftover, cooked
2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
1 teaspoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
1 (15 ounce)can Black Eyed Peas, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup organic sunflower seeds, dry, pan roasted
1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
1/4 cup celery, finely diced
2 teaspoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 teaspoons Tamari or Soy Sauce
1 Tablespoon Safflower Oil, for oiling the squash skin

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. Mix together, in a medium bowl, the quinoa, parsley, garlic, black eyed peas, sunflower seeds, red pepper, celery, lemon juice and soy sauce. Lightly oil the squash skin, with Safflower Oil, to prevent splitting. Stuff each squash half with the quinoa stuffing. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice over each stuffed squash. Place on a baking sheet, cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes or until the squash is tender.

The squash may be steamed for 45 minutes instead of baking.

Nutritional Info

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