A study in Cureus published in 2024 reviewed clinical trials of nutraceuticals in people with myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome. It analysed 14 intervention studies in adults and found that several supplements, including coenzyme Q10, were associated with a subjective reduction in fatigue and improved perception of energy and quality of life.
For those living with intense and prolonged fatigue, these findings suggest that certain nutrients may support key pathways of cellular energy production and oxidative stress management. They do not replace medical treatments, nor do they alone resolve such a complex condition, but they offer clues about how to modulate physiological processes that also play a role in the daily fatigue of many adults.
What the review of nutraceuticals in chronic fatigue syndrome showed
The systematic review included 14 intervention studies conducted between 2010 and 2023 in adults diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria. In total, data from 1,046 participants, mostly women aged around 48 years, were analysed.
The trials evaluated different nutraceuticals and dietary changes. Ten of the 12 studies that measured fatigue as a primary outcome showed subjective improvement after the intervention. Combinations showing benefit included coenzyme Q10 with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, coenzyme Q10 with alpha lipoic acid and coenzyme Q10 with selenium, along with other approaches such as probiotics, D ribose or specific plant extracts.
The magnitude of the changes was variable and measured with different questionnaires, making it difficult to compare figures between studies. Still, the overall pattern was consistent, with many people reporting less feelings of exhaustion, somewhat more vigour and some improvement in quality of life domains such as pain, sleep or general wellbeing.
Coenzyme Q10 and mitochondria, how it connects to feelings of fatigue
Coenzyme Q10 is a molecule manufactured by the body itself and involved in the electron transport chain within the mitochondria. Simply put, it helps cells convert nutrients into usable energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate.
In chronic fatigue syndrome, several studies have described signs of mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress. This means that the cellular energy machinery works less efficiently and generates more oxidative waste. In this context, coenzyme Q10 has been studied as a support to improve energy production and boost internal antioxidant defences.
In the trials included in the review, combinations including coenzyme Q10 were associated with reduced perceived fatigue, improved functional capacity and, in some cases, increased antioxidant capacity and reduced markers of oxidative damage. These changes do not imply complete normalisation, but they do suggest that adjusting cellular bioenergetics can translate into a practical sense of increased vitality.
Daily habits that support cellular energy and mental well-being
Beyond any nutraceuticals, the foundation for daily energy care is built on consistent habits. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts and quality fats provides vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that serve as co-factors in energy and antioxidant pathways.
Regular movement, adapted to physical condition, is also key. In people with intense fatigue, priority should be given to low-intensity activities of controlled duration, with sufficient rest breaks, to avoid deterioration after exertion. Regularity is often more important than intensity.
Night-time rest, stress management and light/dark rhythms complete the picture. Exposure to natural light in the morning, reducing screens in the evening and setting aside daily moments of mental disconnection help the nervous system and mitochondria to work with less of a continuous stress load.
How a coenzyme Q10 supplement can fit into an energy and vitality strategy
The review in people with chronic fatigue syndrome reinforces a central idea – when cellular bioenergetics and oxidative balance are specifically supported, many people perceive less fatigue and improved well-being. Coenzyme Q10 appears repeatedly in this literature as an important part of this nutraceutical approach.
In adults who already take care of their diet, physical activity and rest rhythms, a coenzyme Q10 supplement may make sense as an additional support for daily vitality. Its role in the mitochondrial respiratory chain and in protecting against oxidative stress makes it a logical candidate when looking to support energy production in a physiological way.
This type of supplement is intended as an encapsulated extension of pathways that the body already uses naturally. It is not a substitute for medical treatment, nor does it alone correct root causes of fatigue, but it can be part of a structured self-care strategy focused on sustaining cellular function, mental clarity and a sense of vigour throughout the day.
Coenzyme Q10 supplementation is intended for adults who wish to physiologically support their daily energy and vitality.
What this evidence means for everyday life
Overall, the review shows that nutraceuticals such as coenzyme Q10, combined with other nutrients, can modulate the perception of fatigue in the demanding condition of chronic fatigue syndrome. For the general population, these data reinforce the importance of taking care of cellular bioenergetics through nutrition, movement, rest and, when it makes sense, well-planned nutraceutical support.
The key is to build a solid foundation of habits and, on this, assess supplements that follow the same physiological logic explored in the studies, focusing on energy pathways, oxidative balance and mental wellbeing. The aim is not to pursue miracle solutions, but to accompany the body’s natural processes with informed and sustainable choices.
This content is informative and is not a substitute for the advice of a health professional.
Frequently asked questions
What is a nutraceutical and how does it differ from a food?
A nutraceutical is a supplement that provides nutrients or concentrated bioactive compounds, for example coenzyme Q10, in defined doses. It is taken alongside the usual diet and is intended to support specific physiological functions, such as energy production or antioxidant defence.
What the study on coenzyme Q10 and fatigue showed
The review identified several trials in people with chronic fatigue syndrome where combinations with coenzyme Q10 were associated with less perceived fatigue and better quality of life. The effects were variable, but the overall pattern pointed to a support for feelings of energy and well-being.
These results are useful for people with everyday fatigue but without a diagnosis.
The study focused on people with chronic fatigue syndrome, a specific and complex condition. However, the mechanisms involved, such as mitochondrial function and oxidative stress, are also involved in everyday tiredness. It therefore makes sense to explore nutraceuticals containing coenzyme Q10 as a support within a healthy routine.
What role does coenzyme Q10 play in energy and vitality?
Coenzyme Q10 is involved in the production of adenosine triphosphate within mitochondria and acts as an antioxidant. By supporting these pathways, it may help cells better manage energy demand and oxidative stress, which many people perceive as increased mental vigour and clarity.
How a coenzyme Q10 supplement fits into my daily routine
A coenzyme Q10 supplement can be integrated alongside meals as part of a routine that already includes good nutrition, adapted movement and regular rest. It is intended as additional physiological support for adults seeking to maintain energy and vitality, not as a substitute for habits or health care when needed.
