PQQ Supplements for Brain Health, Fertility & More

Pyrroloquinoline quinone, more commonly known as PQQ, is a molecule that resembles the B-Complex family of vitamins. PQQ helps protect and repair the mitochondria of our cells and helps support more efficient mitochondrial function in the body.

The use of PQQ supplements has been proposed to support energy levels and several other health benefits, but there is limited human research available on this product.

PQQ also has properties that are similar to antioxidants, which allow it to reduce the effects of harmful oxidants in the body. Oxidants, such as free radicals, can cause considerable damage to cells, which can lead to higher risks of health issues, according to the MedlinePlus. [1] However, PQQ supplements also have oxidizing effects, so it is not considered a true antioxidant.

PQQ can be acquired through food sources, including potatoes, beans, green tea and yogurt and other fermented foods. It can also be acquired by taking dietary , such as the BioPQQ brand.

PQQ

Nutrient Supplement

Heart Health

Cognitive Function

Anti-Aging

How It Works:

• Promotes mitochondrial biogenesis
• Supports heart health & cognitive function
• Anti-oxidant for anti-aging benefits

Dosage:

Between 20 - 40 mg per day

Safety:

Limited Research

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Common Uses of PQQ Supplements

PQQ supplements are sometimes used to boost energy levels, especially in those who are experiencing chronic fatigue. Other uses for these supplements include weight loss, improved heart function and memory.

PQQ is also used by some consumers for fertility problems or to help manage the symptoms of autism or multiple sclerosis. Not all of these uses have been validated by currently available research.

In the body, PQQ is typically found in organs that require high amounts of energy to function, such as the heart, brain and red blood cells.

PQQ works by helping mitochondria function more efficiently and increasing the number of these organelles in the body.

Mitochondria are the parts of cells that receive nutrients, break them down and use them to produce energy. They are the predominant site of ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) production in the human body.

Having a higher number of mitochondria with an improved ability to function helps ensure that the body has sufficient energy to fuel various cellular processes.

PQQ works in conjunction with coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, which is directly responsible for helping mitochondria create energy more efficiently.

CoQ10 ensures that these organelles are able to function as efficiently as possible in order to boost energy levels and support brain function, heart function and other important body functions.

According to some research, PQQ supplements may activate genes that cause more mitochondria to be produced. This supplement may also protect the mitochondria from certain forms of damage and support the repair of these important organelles.

Benefits of Taking PQQ Supplements

PQQ studies have mainly focused on animals, so there is very little information on the effects and benefits of these supplements on humans.

Most research done with human subjects has focused on the potential benefits of PQQ supplementation for brain health. It has been studied for its effects on the decline of cognitive health associated with the aging process.

A 2009 study showed that eating foods fortified with PQQ for 12 weeks resulted in a significant improvement in cognitive ability. [2] These findings received additional support from a follow-up study in 2011 in which subjects took oral PQQ supplements. [3]

A 2008 study done on rats showed that PQQ might be able to effectively prevent cognitive decline associated with oxidative stress. [4] However, more human research is needed to determine whether this will apply to human cognitive function as well.

PQQ might also help women who have difficulty conceiving due to poor egg quality. The increase in mitochondria has been purported to help improve egg quality, increasing the chance of successfully conceiving.

PQQ’s other potential benefits include reducing the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, although more studies are needed before any definitive claims can be made. PQQ has not been approved by the FDA for the prevention or treatment of dementia or Alzheimer’s.

How to Take PQQ Supplements

PQQ is available in tablet and capsule forms from online retailers, such as Amazon and GNC.com, as well as drugstores and health and wellness shops that carry supplements. Some well-known brands include Jarrow Formulas, Life Extension, Swanson Ultra and Source Natural.

A large number of PQQ supplement consumer reviews indicated that these were effective at improving cognition and mood. A small number of consumer reviews indicated that these products were not effective.

How much PQQ should you take per day? Most supplements contain 20 MG of PQQ per dose, although doses of up to 40 MG are available as well.

Consumers who are considering taking these supplements should note that there is no recommended or standard PQQ dose amount. Those who take these supplements should consult their doctor to find out how much to take, which will depend on factors such as age and overall health.

Some PQQ supplements are combined with CoQ10 for enhanced mitochondrial support. This supplement stack is purported to offer increased energy and other health benefits.

A large number of consumers who took these combination supplements reported that they worked effectively at elevating their mood and improving cognitive abilities. A small number of consumers who took these supplements stated that they did not produce any noticeable results.

Side Effects of PQQ Supplements

PQQ supplements have not been studied extensively in terms of side effects, adverse reactions and potential drug interactions. Those who take these supplements should do so under a doctor’s care, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or take prescription or over-the-counter medications.

PQQ is not known to be associated with any serious side effects, adverse reactions or drug interactions, but more research is needed to accurately determine its safety as a dietary supplement.

Since these supplements are a recent addition to the marketplace and only limited research on humans is available, long-term effects are not known. Those who use these supplements should do so in moderation and follow the advice of their doctor.

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