Skip to main content
SupplementScience

PQQ — Frequently Asked Questions

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I take PQQ with CoQ10?

Yes, this is one of the most evidence-backed supplement combinations. PQQ stimulates the creation of new mitochondria (mitochondrial biogenesis) while CoQ10 supports the electron transport chain within those mitochondria. Harris et al. (2013) found that PQQ + CoQ10 together produced greater cognitive improvements than either alone. A typical combination is 20mg PQQ + 200mg CoQ10.

Is PQQ a vitamin?

PQQ was once proposed as a new B vitamin, but this classification was not accepted by the scientific community. While PQQ is essential for certain bacterial enzymes and found in trace amounts in human breast milk, it has not been conclusively proven to be an essential vitamin for humans. It is classified as a conditionally essential nutrient.

How much PQQ is in food?

PQQ is found in trace amounts in many foods: natto (61ng/g), parsley (34ng/g), kiwi (27ng/g), and green tea (30ng/g). However, dietary intake typically provides only 0.1-1mg/day, far below the 10-20mg used in clinical studies. Supplementation is necessary to achieve therapeutic doses.

Full PQQ Guide

References

  1. (). Dietary pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) alters indicators of inflammation and mitochondrial-related metabolism in human subjects. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry. DOI
  2. (). Effect of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) on mental status of middle-aged and elderly persons. Food Style 21.
  3. (). Pyrroloquinoline quinone stimulates mitochondrial biogenesis through cAMP response element-binding protein phosphorylation and increased PGC-1alpha expression. Journal of Biological Chemistry. DOI