If you have low energy, mental fog, and always feel fatigued it may be due to improper energy production within your cells. The cellular component that is responsible for energy production is called the mitochondria.
Mitochondrial Function
As mentioned, the mitochondria is the power plant of our cells. Our bodies turn over approximately our own body weight in ATP (energy) each day. Almost all our energy is generated by our mitochondria, primarily within our muscles, brain, liver, heart, and GI tract.
The mitochondria also plays a role in timely cell death (apoptosis) and in free radical production and consumption. All of these functions are significant in aging and disease.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Our mitochondria can become dysfunctional if the following occur:
- Free radical build-up
- Free radicals attack our cells by scavenging and removing electrons from healthy cells, leading to oxidation. Free radicals can build up in cells and cause damage to other components of the cell, such as DNA, lipids, and proteins. Free radicals are produced by the mitochondria themselves.
- DNA mutations
- Due to internal or environmental insults, such as prolonged exposure of the skin to UV radiation.
- Lack of sleep
- Sleep disturbances, insomnia, or exhaustion
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Excess refined and high glycemic carbohydrates
- Infections and microbes
- Lead to dysbiosis
- Certain medications
- Example: prolonged antibiotic use
Mitochondrial Support
The good news is that proper mitochondrial support can reverse any issues. Exercise has been shown to improve mitochondrial numbers and efficiency by eliminating dysfunctional mitochondria. Short intense burst exercises appear most physiologically potent.
Limiting refined carbohydrates and excess added sugar has also been shown to improve cellular energy. Added sugar can now be seen on most nutrition labels, which allows you to differentiate between natural sugar and added sugar.
Certain supplements can also help support your mitochondria by giving your body ample nutrients. The Shop at the Houstonian currently offers a supplement called
MitoCORE, which is scientifically formulated to recharge cellular energy production.