Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell. They produce approximately 90% of the energy in your body. Some cells have more mitochondria than others. Muscle cells, for example, have several mitochondria. Where as neurons have significantly less. They also serve a very important role in the process of apoptosis.
Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, is very important for your health. This process takes broken, fragmented, or malfunctioning cells and gets rid of them. Furthermore, this cleaning up process helps decrease your risk of tumors and cancer.
As we age, our mitochondria become less dense and more fragmented. Therefore this change causes a decrease in our energy production. Without enough energy, our bodies are not able to cope with normal cellular functions. For that reason, this may be a contributing factor in many age-related diseases.
The mitochondria also release several very harmful free radicals which need to be neutralized. A few of the most effective ways to reduce these free radicals is through regular exercise, EMF (Electro Magnetic Frequencies) avoidance, and fasting.
Anti-oxidants can also help in the reduction of free radicals. Here is a list of other supplements that have shown to help with improving your mitochondria.
Supplements That Support Your Mitochondria
- Coenzyme Q-10 – important participant in the mitochondrial respiratory chain
- Vitamin C – deficiencies can lead to a spike in free radicals
- L-Carnitine – helps transport essential fatty acids into our mitochondria
- Creatine – helps in the formation of ATP which supplies energy to your brain
- B Vitamins – help with synthesis and repair of mitochondrial DNA
- ALA (Alpha Lipoic Acid) – can reverse mitochondrial decay and aging
Eating a healthy diet, fasting, and exercise are all keys to maintaining mitochondrial health. Possibly adding some of these supplements may help too, but only if your body has a deficiency. Talk with your primary care physician before using any new supplement. Hope this helps!!
Dr Spencer Charlet
Mooresville Chiropractor
704-663-7625
Sources:
www.biology4kids.com/files/cell_mito.htm
