The mitochondria is the power house of the cell. It produces ATP or the energy of the cell. Simply stated when we eat food, carbohydrates, proteins and fats we convert this to energy. For several reasons including poor diet, exposure to toxins, chemicals, viruses, bacteria, parasites this can create an overload of oxidative stress on our body. The mitochondria, virtually has a force field around it not allowing these free radicals penetrate. However, over time there is an abundance of free radicals and the force field or anti-oxidants become less effective.
This will result in fatigue and will affect how our mitochondria produces energy. There is another potent side effect of this especially when dealing with chronic pain and neuropathy. The mitochondria is supposed to create a good cell balance between sodium and calcium. When this becomes disrupted the nerves become more sensitive to minimal input. Essentially meaning it takes less stimulation to activate the nerve.
How do we test for mitochondrial function? The test I recommend is the Organic Acids test. It is a urine test that actually looks at how your body handles fats, carbohydrates and fats and determines if it adequately enters the Krebs Cycle or energy cycle in the mitochondria to produce the energy or ATP.The two labs I recommend for this testing are Great Plains and Genova Labs.
How can I fix my mitochondria? First you must eliminate the stressor or cause of the oxidative stress or damage. A great place to start is with food and eating a anti-inflammatory diet. We recommend Paleo or Ketogenic diet.
Then we have to figure out which part of the body is it affecting. Is it detoxification or the liver? Is it hormonal? Is it elimination with constipation or diarrhea? This part of the body also requires certain support to help it heal.
How do we support our mitochondria and enhance function? In this situation I like to get the body to utilize fat burning for energy. Supplements like Carnitine and Magnesium assist with this.
Also, to provide the body more protection in the form of antioxidants can be beneficial. Reducing free radical damage and inflammation is the key to longevity and good health. In fact it is one of our only defenses in helping to prevent Alzheimer’s. There are a few products that I recommend to support mitochondrial health. Alpha Lipoic Acid, CoQ10, Glutathione are powerful antioxidants.
We use Mitochondrial NRG or PQQ from Designs for Health.
A few helpful tips: If you wake up and are tired try NADH +COQ10. Has to be done one hour away from food. If you do it at the same time will create fatigue.
If very sore following any exercise try PQQ after the exercise. Prior to the workout I like an electrolyte formula that has D-ribose, creatine and niacin.
The mitochondria is an essential component in the healing process and overall health. The stressors must be reduced or eliminated and support provided for any positive effect.
Prior to starting any program it is recommended to consult with your Doctor.
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