take coq10 in the morning with breakfast

May 21, 2025

Medically Reviewed by By Girish Desai, the Chief Pharmacist at Landys Chemist since 1982

Written by Rhysa Phommachanh Head of Digital Marketing

When to Take CoQ10: Morning or Night?

The best time to take CoQ10 is in the morning with a meal that contains fat. This timing improves absorption and supports daily energy levels. As CoQ10 helps fuel your body’s mitochondria - your cellular powerhouses, taking it earlier in the day may align better with your natural rhythm. Taking CoQ10 at night isn’t harmful, but some people report it disrupts sleep, especially at higher doses.

At Landys Chemist, our pharmacists and nutritionists frequently recommend CoQ10 supplements for energy support, heart health and as a supplement alongside statin use, where appropriate.

coq10 is best taken in the morning

Why the Timing of CoQ10 Matters

Morning use may align with natural energy production

CoQ10 plays a critical role in generating cellular energy via adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Studies show that CoQ10 levels influence mitochondrial function - the process that fuels every cell. Taking it in the morning can complement your body's energy cycle and may help with fatigue and concentration throughout the day.

Taking CoQ10 with food enhances absorption

Because CoQ10 is fat-soluble, its absorption significantly improves when consumed with a meal containing dietary fat. A 2020 review explains that coenzyme Q10’s oral bioavailability is limited on its own but increases markedly when taken with food, particularly fats, due to enhanced micelle formation in the digestive tract.

Evening dosing may disrupt sleep in some individuals

Although not a stimulant, CoQ10’s antioxidant and energy-enhancing properties can affect sleep for some people. While formal studies on sleep impact are limited, many clinicians report anecdotal evidence of restlessness with late dosing. For this reason, morning or early afternoon intake is usually preferred.

Ubiquinol may improve effectiveness in older adults

A 2019 review by Lopez-Lluch et al. found that ubiquinol (the active, reduced form of CoQ10) is more bioavailable than ubiquinone, especially in individuals over 50 or with impaired nutrient absorption. This may affect when and how often CoQ10 should be taken, particularly in clinical settings.

Best Time of Day to Take CoQ10

Morning: Ideal for energy support and tolerance
With meals: Take alongside fat-rich foods like avocado, eggs, or nuts
Avoid late evening: Particularly if you’re sensitive to sleep disruption
Split doses: If taking over 200mg daily, consider dividing the dose across the day

Final Verdict:

For most people, the best time to take CoQ10 is in the morning with a fat-containing meal. This helps the body absorb the nutrient efficiently and supports sustained energy levels throughout the day. Evening doses are not inherently harmful, but may impact sleep in some cases. Choosing the right form, such as ubiquinol, can also improve absorption, particularly in older adults.

For optimal benefits, take CoQ10 consistently, and always speak to a healthcare professional if you're taking medication such as statins or managing a health condition.

Sources:

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your doctor or healthcare provider before starting any supplements, treatments, or remedies. Ensure a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle before considering supplements. Supplements should not replace a balanced diet.