Health Guide

Pyrroloquinoline Quinone

Have you heard of the 'new B-vitamin'? Meet Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ). It is a micronutrient that plays a massive role in cellular energy. While it was once thought to be a B-vitamin, PQQ is actually a 'redox cofactor,' meaning it helps enzymes in your body perform critical chemical reactions. Its superpower? It sparks the creation of new mitochondria—the tiny power plants inside your cells. More mitochondria means more energy, better brain function, and enhanced vitality. Unlike most vitamins, your body can't make PQQ, so you must get it from your diet or supplements.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Pyrroloquinoline Quinone
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Mitochondrial Biogenesis Stimulation

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Effectiveness (Relative Score)
Compound

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Supercharges Cellular Energy: It sparks mitochondrial biogenesis (making new mitochondria), helping your body produce ATP (energy) more efficiently.
  • Neuroprotection: PQQ protects brain cells from oxidative stress and damage, potentially supporting memory and cognitive function.
  • Heart Health: Studies suggest it helps protect cardiac tissue from damage and supports healthy blood pressure levels.

Deep Dive

PQQ is distinct from other antioxidants because of its ability to regenerate. Unlike Vitamin C, which is used up after neutralizing a free radical, PQQ can cycle through thousands of redox reactions without breaking down. This makes it incredibly efficient at protecting your DNA. Furthermore, because it encourages the growth of new mitochondria, it directly combats the cellular aging process, where mitochondrial function naturally declines.

Natural Food Sources

Nature has packed PQQ into some of our favorite healthy foods. It is heat-stable, so cooking doesn't destroy it easily.

FoodAmount (Approx.)Note
Parsley2-3 ng/gSurprisingly high for a common herb!
Kiwi Fruit2-3 ng/gOne of the best fruit sources.
Papaya2-3 ng/gGreat for digestion and PQQ.
Celery2-3 ng/gEasy to add to juices and salads.
Green TeaTraceContains trace amounts with every cup.

Supplementation

Because PQQ is found in tiny amounts (nanograms) in food, many people choose to supplement to reach therapeutic levels. Look for PQQ Disodium Salt, which is the form best absorbed by the body. It is fat-soluble, so take it with a meal containing healthy fats (like avocado or olive oil) for maximum absorption.

Top Food Sources

Parsley
Highest vegetable source
Kiwi
Best fruit source
Papaya
Good for digestion
Celery
Easy to juice
Natto
Fermented soy (Japanese dish)

Frequently Asked Questions

No, they are different but work synergistically. CoQ10 helps mitochondria produce energy; PQQ helps create *more* mitochondria. Taking them together is often recommended for maximum benefit.
It is difficult. A standard diet provides about 50-100 micrograms daily. Supplements usually provide 20mg, which is 200x higher than dietary intake.
Indirectly, yes. By improving mitochondrial efficiency, your metabolism runs better, and exercise becomes more effective.
Most users report increased energy and mental clarity within 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use.

Safety & Side Effects

PQQ is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and is well-tolerated. Because it is water-soluble, excess amounts are easily excreted in urine. No serious side effects have been reported in human trials. However, as with any supplement, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Scientific References

  • [1]Kumazawa, T., et al. (1992). 'Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ): A novel redox cofactor.' *Journal of Biological Chemistry*.
  • [2]Nakano, M., et al. (2012). 'Effects of oral intake of PQQ on cognitive function.' *Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition*.
  • [3]Harris, C.B., et al. (2013). 'Effect of PQQ on mitochondrial biogenesis.' *Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry*.