Ubiquinone vs Ubiquinol
Before we get into it, if you're not sure what Co-enzyme Q10 is, have a read about it here.
So, Ubiquinone and Ubiquinol. You'll probably hear these terms when it comes to Co-enzyme Q10, but what do they actually mean? In real terms, there isn't much difference. One is the oxidised form, whilst the other one is the reduced form. This means the loss and gain of electrons, respectively.
Because ubiquinol is reduced and contains an OH group, it is classed as an alcohol. Ubiquinone on the other hand, is considered a ketone due to its double bonded oxygen.
TL;DR
Ubiquinol
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reduced (gain of electrons) |
Ubiquinone
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oxidised (loss of electrons)
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Although ubiquinol and ubiquinone have 2 different chemical structures, they are able to convert between each others via a chemical reaction known as 'redox'. Cells within the body undergo redox reactions depending on where CoQ10 is found within the body and what type is needed.
Depending on whether CoQ10 is in the blood and lymph or inside the mitochondria of the cells, it shifts to the form that is needed in the particular situation. In blood and lymph, CoQ10 primarily serves as an antioxidant. In the mitochondria, it supports the energy metabolism.
Ubiquinol is the antioxidant form of CoQ10. This means that is the protective form due to its reduced state allowing the neutralisation of free radicals. By neutralising free radicals it can prevent the damage to DNA, lipids and proteins within cells.
Ubiquinone is seen as being more important for energy metabolism. This is because it needs to use ATP to convert to the 'active' form Ubiquinol.
TL;DR
Ubiquinol
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essential for antioxidant function of CoQ10
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Ubiquinone
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essential for CoQ10 role in cellular energy metabolism
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What does this mean for you?
The most important thing to note as a consumer, is that the absorption of ubiquinol and ubiquinone are the same. Regardless of its form, it's absorbed into the body through the intestinal membrane. Ubiquinol is also more expensive to manufacture, meaning the product is more expensive too.
Here at Transforme we have a wide range of CoQ10 products, formulated to reach the RDA in just one softgel. We even have a vegetarian version!