The potential damage from plastic or specifically BPA to hormones, fertility (eggs/sperm), immunity and development has been increasingly documented and well known in the scientific community. We know it is bad for the body and the environment. We know it is particularly bad when it comes to fertility and for rapidly developing small people. However, it is super tricky and stressful to always avoid as it is everywhere! Plus what about the exposure we have already had?! Well, here’s the potential good news: have we found something that can potentially reverse the damage we already have? We take a look at the latest very promising research around the power of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Specifically it’s power to potentially undo some of the damage that we can get from BPA exposure. 

Can CoQ10 get to the root of the problem with BPA in plastic? 

A report published by Harvard Medical School (click here) looked at the impact of BPA at a cellular level in worms (yep…worms… but bear with us!). The conclusion is that it did show evidence of counteracting multiple areas of damage caused by BPA exposure!

So, what is this damage and how does CoQ10 work against BPA? 

In a nutshell BPA found in plastic is a known hormone disruptor. One of the areas it disrupts is around estrogen. It has shown evidence of binding to estrogen receptors in the body. The Endocrine Society has written extensively on this. Clearly not something we want for fertility, pregnancy or development of little people. Click here for much more. 

We also know that there are links to damage to cells themselves, egg cells being vulnerable too of course. This can be via damage to the powerhouse of the cell: the mitochondria and also from oxidative stress.

This is where CoQ10 has shown some real impact: 

CoQ10 is a known antioxidant. What is that? Click here for much more, however, in a nutshell it is something that helps to neutralise ‘waste’ in the body that happens as a consequence of cell life. The trouble comes when we have more waste and less of the ‘mop’: antioxidants to clean it up. What causes more of this waste? Well, toxic exposure/infection etc. When this happens we get production of ‘free radicals’ that can damage cells and their DNA. Not what we want!

CoQ10 has consistently shown evidence as a powerful antioxidant or ‘mop’ particularly working to protect the all important powerhouse of a cell: the Mitochondria. Good news! (Click here for more on how it works).

Even better CoQ10 in this report has shown evidence specifically targeting damage that has occurred due to BPA or plastic exposure: 

Most of us have had BPA exposure. Of course we can reduce our exposure going forward through awareness and using glass instead but it can feel overwhelming not to mention depressing to think we have already had exposure. Click here for more how to spot it. 

The good news is that this study demonstrated the ability to reduce oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and even reduce the amount of genetic abnormalities in embryos. Including BPA induced defects in early embryonic development. Pretty cool!

Here come the caveats… obviously! 

Ok so the first thing to note is that this is clearly a study done in worms, not humans. Obviously worms are not humans! However, the mechanism is interesting and the study’s authors have noted that many reproductive abnormalities observed in worms have been seen in other mammals.

So, what should you do? 

There are a few things to note here. Firstly, this is one study, done in worms and clearly more needs to be done to be conclusive. Secondly, CoQ10 is found in food sources (mainly meat and fish) and is made by the body. However, you can buy it in supplement form. Either as CoQ10 itself or as Ubiquinol (which is the reduced form). Click here for more info on how to get more. 

However, as we always caution. The supplement market is super unregulated in terms of dose and source. So, as we always say it is REALLY important to consult your doctor before taking any supplement.

Bottom line: can CoQ10 reduce damage from BPA in plastic and help us on the path to better fertility and healthier babies?! 

This research is certainly promising and builds on research that has already been done about how CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant for the body. Everyone is an individual with different needs. However, this research once against strengthens the case that CoQ10 is something to consider and chat with your doctor about on the quest for better eggs and for healthy small people!

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This article is for informational purposes only. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. The information on this website has been developed following years of personal research and from referenced and sourced medical research. Before making any changes we strongly recommend you consult a healthcare professional before you begin.

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