Understanding Garden of Life's CoQ10 Formulations
When investigating what are the ingredients in Garden of Life ubiquinol, it is essential to first clarify that Garden of Life offers several different CoQ10 products. The specific ingredients depend on the product line, such as their Raw CoQ10 capsules or Vitamin Code gummies. While the core component is CoQ10, a fat-soluble, antioxidant coenzyme, the brand enhances its products with whole-food blends and other supplements to support overall wellness.
The primary active ingredient: CoQ10
The most important ingredient is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which is found in two forms: ubiquinone and ubiquinol. While ubiquinone is the oxidized form and ubiquinol is the reduced, 'active' antioxidant form, the body can convert one to the other.
- For example, in the Raw CoQ10 capsules, Garden of Life provides 200 mg of CoQ10 per serving. The product description indicates that this CoQ10 works as a powerful antioxidant that helps the body produce energy. It is important to note that many supplements labeled simply as CoQ10 are typically the ubiquinone form, which the body then converts to ubiquinol.
Supporting ingredients in capsule formulas
Garden of Life's supplement philosophy is built on using whole food-based ingredients, and their CoQ10 capsules are no exception. The Raw CoQ10 capsules include several other key components:
- Lipid Delivery System: A unique feature of the capsules is the use of a lipid delivery system to enhance absorption. This includes raw, cold-pressed chia seed oil, which provides an omega 3-6-9 matrix. Since CoQ10 is fat-soluble, combining it with a fat source helps the body utilize it more effectively.
- Raw Organic Fruit & Vegetable Blend: To provide additional vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, the capsules contain a blend of over 20 different organic fruits and vegetables. This includes ingredients like organic apple, beet, broccoli, spinach, and carrot.
- Raw Probiotic Blend: The formula also incorporates a raw probiotic blend, containing strains such as Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, to support healthy digestion.
- Other Ingredients: For encapsulation, the product typically uses a vegetable cellulose and chlorophyll capsule, along with other excipients like candelilla wax and natural non-GMO soy tocopherols.
Supporting ingredients in gummy formulas
For those who prefer a different format, Garden of Life offers Vitamin Code CoQ10 Gummies. The ingredients vary from the capsules and include:
- Fermented CoQ10: The gummies provide a specific amount of fermented CoQ10.
- Organic Fruit Blend: The gummies derive their taste and nutrients from an organic fruit blend rather than added sugars.
- Clinically Studied Probiotics: In addition to the whole food component, the gummies also contain clinically studied probiotics for digestive support.
Ubiquinone vs. Ubiquinol: A comparison
Understanding the two forms of CoQ10 is vital when selecting a supplement. While your body can convert ubiquinone to ubiquinol, this process can become less efficient with age.
| Feature | Ubiquinone | Ubiquinol |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Oxidized form of CoQ10 | Reduced, active antioxidant form of CoQ10 |
| Function | Essential for cellular energy (ATP) production via the electron transport chain | Acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage |
| Bioavailability | Some studies suggest it is less readily absorbed than ubiquinol, particularly in older adults. | More easily absorbed and utilized by the body, making it potentially more effective for older individuals. |
| Body Conversion | The body must convert it to ubiquinol to serve as an antioxidant. | The body can use it directly in its active antioxidant role. |
| Supplement Stability | Generally more stable than ubiquinol in supplement form. | Less stable when exposed to air, requiring specialized encapsulation. |
Why Garden of Life uses whole-food ingredients
Garden of Life is known for its commitment to using traceable, high-quality, and whole food-based ingredients. The inclusion of raw organic fruit and vegetable blends and probiotics in their formulas is designed to provide nutrients in a more natural, bioavailable form. This approach aims to provide a more holistic nutritional benefit rather than just delivering an isolated nutrient.
Furthermore, many Garden of Life products are third-party certified, often carrying stamps like Certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and Certified Vegan, ensuring they meet rigorous standards for purity and quality.
Conclusion
For those asking what are the ingredients in Garden of Life ubiquinol, the answer lies in understanding the brand's diverse product range. While the term 'ubiquinol' refers to the active form of CoQ10, Garden of Life's Raw CoQ10 supplements typically contain CoQ10 in the ubiquinone form, enhanced with a unique lipid delivery system (cold-pressed chia seed oil), a blend of raw organic fruits and vegetables, and probiotics for comprehensive support. The specific ingredients vary between their capsule and gummy products, but both reflect the company's commitment to whole-food, clean, and highly traceable components. By integrating CoQ10 with complementary ingredients, Garden of Life aims to maximize the supplement's absorption and overall health benefits, particularly for heart health and cellular energy.
For more information on the company's standards, you can visit their website for details on their third-party certifications and ingredient sourcing.
