
How we pick our products
Welcome to our big PQQ test 2023. Here we present all the PQQ products we have tested in detail. We have compiled detailed background information and added a summary of customer reviews on the internet. We would like to make your purchase decision easier and help you find the best PQQ product for you.
You will also find answers to frequently asked questions in our guide. If available, we also offer interesting test videos. Furthermore, you will also find some important information on this page that you should definitely pay attention to if you want to buy PQQ as a dietary supplement.
Contents
- 1 Summary
- 2 The Best PQQ: Our Choices
- 3 Guide: Questions you should ask yourself before buying a PQQ product
- 4 Decision: What types of PQQ preparations are there and which is right for you?
- 5 Buying criteria: You can use these factors to compare and evaluate PQQ preparations
- 6 Facts worth knowing about PQQ
Summary
- PQQ supports the function and formation of mitochondria, which are responsible for the body’s own energy production. This slows down the ageing of the cells.
- PQQ has so far been found in all plant foods.
- The additional intake of PQQ is particularly useful in the case of diseases or in old age.
The Best PQQ: Our Choices
Guide: Questions you should ask yourself before buying a PQQ product
What is PQQ?
Before that, only very few researchers dealt with the relatively unknown pyrroloquinoline quinone. However, there are some studies and ongoing investigations on the topic. In the meantime, it is known that PQQ in connection with mitochondria plays an important role in the field of energy production (ATP) of the human organism.
The energy production of the cells takes place in the mitochondria, whereby a great many free radicals are formed that must be neutralised. If this does not happen, they damage or destroy the mitochondria. This is where PQQ comes in as a saviour.
PQQ is a coenzyme that is bioactive and an extremely powerful antioxidant (500 times more intense than vitamin C). It also has a protective function and also promotes the division and formation of mitochondria, which is unique in its form.
Due to the small amount of PQQ that exists in our body, a higher dose can be supplied to the body through food or supplements. In the following, we will explain in which cases this makes sense.
For whom is PQQ suitable as a dietary supplement?
The performance of the cells and the vitality are also strengthened. With age, the performance of the mitochondria is depleted, and PQQ could help to increase performance again. This is accompanied by a positive anti-ageing effect. If the function of the mitochondria is limited and they cannot work as usual, there is a risk of contracting the following diseases:
- Diabetes
- Heart attack
- Autoimmune diseases
- Stroke
- Cancer
- Fatigue syndrome
PQQ can help counteract these diseases as it has a positive effect on cell health.
In diabetes, taking PQQ can help to improve insulin sensitivity again and thus lower blood glucose levels. This also increases the effect of the insulin again. PQQ has an extraordinarily positive effect on our memory and brain. It has a neuroprotective function in that it can improve our memory function and counteract oxygen deficiency and ischaemia.
By preventing the formation of amyloid fibrils, PQQ counteracts the main cause of Alzheimer’s disease. In the event of a stroke, PQQ has a reducing effect on the damaged areas of the brain. It also protects against oxidation processes in the brain, which can lead to Parkinson’s disease. If one falls ill with a tumour, the cell metabolism is changed.
If the function of the mitochondria is supported by PQQ and thus becomes more active, it can be used to prevent cancer. The intake of PQQ can also be helpful for patients who are already ill. If you would like to learn more about this topic, you can watch this video.
What happens when there is a shortage of PQQ?
It is important to note that almost the entire bioenergy of the human organism is generated in mitochondria.
Since almost all bodily functions and organs are dependent on this energy supplier, a failure can have drastic consequences. PQQ helps in the formation of new mitochondria, which are often larger and have a higher mass. An undersupply of PQQ can impair the function of the immune system, with white blood cells losing their ability to respond appropriately. Visible symptoms of PQQ deficiency can include hair loss, brittle skin, poor collagen synthesis or growth failure.
What foods contain PQQ?
In the following table we have listed some foods containing PQQ.
Food | Proportion of PQQ per kg |
---|---|
Cocoa | up to 700µg |
Natto | 61µg |
Parsley | 34µg |
Green tea | 29µg |
Paprika | 28µg |
Kiwi | 27µg |
Papaya | 26µg |
Research shows that PQQ is present in all plant foods analysed so far.
How much does the food supplement PQQ cost?
Food | Price range |
---|---|
PQQ in pure form | about 20€-60€ |
PQQ in combination | about 40€-80€ |
If you want to buy PQQ in its pure form, you can find products from about 20€. PQQ is also often offered in complexes. Often you can buy it in combination with Q10 and this is available from about 40€.
What alternatives are there to taking the dietary supplement PQQ?
Decision: What types of PQQ preparations are there and which is right for you?
PQQ does not only offer benefits for sick people. It also has positive effects on healthy people and can improve the quality of life. In combination with coenzyme Q10, PQQ works even faster and more effectively. What are the advantages and disadvantages of
- PQQ in pure form and
- PQQ with Q10
can be found in the following.
What distinguishes PQQ in its pure form and what are its advantages and disadvantages?
The additional intake of PQQ is particularly useful for certain diseases. However, it also has positive properties for healthy people and can have a relieving effect on cells. So far, no study has been able to determine any disadvantages or side effects. However, PQQ has not yet been sufficiently researched to be able to completely exclude side effects.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of PQQ in combination with Q10?
The antioxidants PQQ and Q10 complement each other perfectly. Q10 supports the mitochondrial function in the production of ATP, the body’s own energy supplier. In combination with PQQ, both preparations work faster in more effective and promote the formation of new mitochondria.
If you decide on a PQQ product in combination with Q10, you don’t have to worry about the dosage and the exact composition, as the capsules already contain a suitable dosage.
Since the combination of active ingredients is usually offered in capsules, you need to find out exactly what the capsule shell is made of. Animal gelatine is often used for this purpose.
Buying criteria: You can use these factors to compare and evaluate PQQ preparations
In the following we show you which criteria you should consider when buying a PQQ product. There are differences from preparation to preparation in the following areas, among others:
- Dosage and quantity
- Quality
- Dosage form
- Additives
- Tolerability
In the following sections, we explain what is important in the individual criteria so that you can decide more easily on a product.
Dosage
In general, a dosage of 10mg to 20mg is recommended. Since this cannot possibly be achieved through food alone, it makes sense to resort to a dietary supplement. There are preparations with different dosages from 10mg to 50mg per capsule. Most capsules contain 20mg of PQQ, which is why one capsule per day is sufficient as a guide. If you are unsure, it is best to discuss the appropriate dosage with your doctor, who can then advise you individually.
Quantity
PQQ supplements are available in different quantities. Common quantities per pack are
- 30 capsules
- 60 capsules
- 90 capsules
- 120 capsules
If you want to try PQQ for the first time, a small amount of capsules is recommended. If you buy 30 capsules with 10mg PQQ each and you want to take 20mg PQQ per day, the pack will last you for 15 days.
Quality
There are some differences in the quality of PQQ on the market. On the one hand, there are products that are produced in Germany and on the other hand, products from abroad that are subject to different quality standards.
Food supplements produced in Germany are all subject to the HACCP hygiene standard, which is based on the quality standard for food. This means that all raw materials used are also subject to high quality control in order to avoid health risks.
In addition to HACCP, there are also the DIN ISO 9001 and GMP standards by which a product can be certified.
Form of presentation
PQQ can be purchased in the form of capsules. It should be noted that capsules are classically made from gelatine and are therefore not suitable for vegetarians. However, many products are made from a vegetable alternative and are therefore suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Here you should look at the manufacturer’s specifications or the ingredients of the preparation.
Additives
In order to get a product that is as pure as possible without unnecessary substances, you can check the ingredients to see which additives have been added to the product. Most PQQ capsules are free of all artificial additives, GMO-free, gluten-free and soy-free. If the capsules are made from vegetable cellulose, the product is even vegan.
Facts worth knowing about PQQ
When and how should PQQ be taken?
Since PQQ is in capsules, it should always be taken with sufficient liquid. Whether to take it before or after meals varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.
What side effects can occur?
So far, no to few side effects of PQQ are known and mostly occur in high doses. The most common side effects reported in studies are headache and fatigue. To avoid side effects as much as possible, you should follow the recommended dosage. If you experience any symptoms after taking PQQ, consult your doctor.
What happens if I take too much PQQ?
Since PQQ is mainly found in plant foods, it is assumed to be a safe substance.
However, it is not yet clear what effects an excessive dose of PQQ can have in the long term.
Photo source: 123rf.com / Yulia Grogoryeva