Phoenix Pools: Chlorine Cooked Your CoQ10?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 6, 2026

The desert sun beats down, and the shimmering blue of your Phoenix backyard pool beckons. But before you dive in, consider this: that refreshing chlorine might be silently stealing something vital from you – Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10. It’s a crucial nutrient, and Phoenix residents, with their extended pool season, are particularly vulnerable.

CoQ10 is essential for energy production within your cells. It’s also a potent antioxidant, protecting against damage from free radicals. Think of it as the spark plug for your body’s engine and a shield against rust.

Chlorine, while disinfecting your pool, creates byproducts like chloramines. These aren’t just responsible for that "chlorine smell"; they can also interfere with CoQ10 production and increase its depletion. This is especially true with prolonged exposure, something common in Maricopa County where pools are open for much of the year.

So, what can a sun-loving, pool-owning Phoenician do? Let’s dive into a practical plan.

First, assess your risk. Do you spend significant time in chlorinated pools? Are you experiencing unexplained fatigue, muscle weakness, or cognitive issues? These could be signs of CoQ10 deficiency.

Next, get tested. While not routinely offered, you can request a CoQ10 blood test from your doctor. Sonora Quest Laboratories, with multiple locations across Phoenix, performs this test. Ask your doctor for a requisition. Knowing your baseline is crucial.

Now, let’s talk supplementation. This is where things get specific. Don’t just grab any CoQ10 off the shelf at Fry’s. Look for Ubiquinol, the active form of CoQ10, which is more readily absorbed, especially as we age.

Here are a few brands readily available in Phoenix that I recommend:

• NOW Ubiquinol 100 mg: Available at Sprouts Farmers Market and Natural Grocers. It’s a good starting point for general maintenance.
• Jarrow Formulas QH-absorb: Found at Whole Foods Market. This brand is known for its enhanced absorption formula.
• Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10 Ubiquinol: Often available at Vitamin Shoppe locations. It’s a solid choice with a good reputation.

Dosage is key. Start with 100mg of Ubiquinol daily and monitor how you feel. If you’re deficient or experiencing symptoms, you might need 200-300mg, but always consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian.

Beyond supplements, dietary adjustments can help. CoQ10 is found in foods like organ meats (liver, heart), fatty fish (salmon, tuna), and whole grains. While not a primary source, incorporating these into your diet can contribute to overall CoQ10 levels.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the pool: chlorine itself. You can’t eliminate it entirely, but you can minimize its impact.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to better pool maintenance:

1. Maintain proper pH levels: Aim for a pH of 7.2-7.8. This helps chlorine work more effectively, reducing the need for excessive amounts. You can purchase a reliable pool testing kit at Leslie’s Pool Supplies in Phoenix.
2. Shock your pool properly: Use a non-chlorine shock (potassium monopersulfate) weekly to oxidize organic contaminants without creating more chloramines. Look for brands like “Oxy-Shock” at Pinch A Penny Pool Patio Spa.
3. Consider a salt water system: While still producing chlorine, salt water systems generate it more consistently and often at lower levels, reducing chloramine formation. Check out Pentair or Hayward systems at local pool equipment retailers.
4. Invest in a good pool cover: This reduces evaporation and sunlight exposure, both of which contribute to chlorine breakdown and the need for more chemicals.
5. Regularly clean your pool: Vacuuming and brushing the pool walls prevent algae growth and reduce the demand for chlorine.

A common mistake is over-chlorinating the pool, thinking it’s the only way to keep it clean. This actually increases chloramine production. Regular testing and balanced chemical usage are crucial.

Another pitfall is neglecting pool maintenance during the off-season. Even if you’re not swimming, maintaining proper chemical balance prevents algae blooms and makes startup in the spring much easier, reducing the need for a chlorine surge.

Let’s talk about a real-world scenario. Imagine a 45-year-old Phoenix resident, Sarah, who swims laps three times a week in her community pool. She’s been feeling increasingly tired and experiencing muscle cramps. After reading this article, she gets her CoQ10 levels tested and discovers they’re low. She starts taking 200mg of Ubiquinol daily, switches to a non-chlorine shock for her pool, and diligently maintains proper pH levels. Within a few weeks, her energy levels improve, and the muscle cramps subside.

This isn’t just theoretical; it’s a practical solution for a common problem in our sunny state.

Finally, remember that this is not medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen or making significant changes to your diet or pool maintenance routine. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs and health status.

Don’t let the benefits of swimming in Phoenix be overshadowed by potential CoQ10 depletion. By taking proactive steps to supplement, adjust your diet, and maintain your pool properly, you can enjoy the water and protect your health. So, go ahead, take that dip – but do it informed and prepared.