If you've never heard of PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline quinone), you're not alone.
PQQ is used as a dietary supplement because of its impact on the health and protection of your mitochondria. Mitochondria provide our cells with energy (ATP) and regulate cellular metabolism.
Since mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell, they're responsible for the proper function of your entire body, cell by cell. More mitochondria means more energy throughout the body and mind.
PQQ is often compared to, or combined with, CoQ10. It has even been called "the other CoQ10" due to its similarities. PQQ is most commonly found in kiwi, green peppers, parsley, tea and human milk.
PQQ's Benefits:
Cardiovascular Health - PQQ supports heart muscle function, cellular oxygen utilization and cell protection.
Brain Health - PQQ supports nerve growth factor (NGF), neuronal receptor activity and molecular signals that promote mitochondrial function.
Neurons are the cells that transmit messages so our brain can communicate among itself and to the rest of our body. NGF is necessary for the formation and maintenance of new neurons. PQQ encourages growth of healthy neurons to maintain normal cognitive health.
PPQ influences a multitude of physiological and biochemical processes in different ways including redox activity, radical-scavenging activity, and modulation of cell signaling pathways.
Kelly Harrington, MS, RDN
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist for Healthy Goods
References:
Akagawa M & Ikemoto K. Recent progress in studies on teh health benefits of pyrroloquinoline quinone. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry. Vol. 80, 2016 - Issue 1:13-22.
Nakano M. et al. Effects of oral supplementation with PQQ on stress, fatigue, and sleep. Functional Foods in Health and Disease 2012, 2(8):307-324.
Harris C. Dietary PQQ alters indicators of inflammation and mitochondrial-related metabolism in human subjects. The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry. Vol. 24, Issue 12, Dec. 2013:2076-2084.
Rucker R. Potential physiological importance of pyrroloquinoline quinone. Altern Med Rev. 2009 Sep; 14(3):268-77.
