Key Takeaway
The mitochondria are rod-shaped organelles that are considered to be the powerhouse of the cell by converting oxygen and nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This microscopic part of the body ultimately provides fuel to organ systems and leads the way in accomplishing vital biological processes.
There are over 1,600 proteins coded by chromosomal genes known to be associated with mitochondria. If the mitochondria are not functioning properly, the body will begin to "run out of fuel" and symptoms such as chronic fatigue, muscle weakness/pains, loss of appetite, migraines, neurological abnormalities, sleep disorders, and digestive issues may occur. This is known as mitochondrial dysfunction.
The 5 Roles of the Mitochondria:
1. Production of ATP: Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the energy currency of cells. In addition to providing energy, the breakdown of ATP serves a broad range of cell functions, including DNA/RNA synthesis, metabolism, hormone balancing, and the mediation of neurotransmitters.
The organ that consumes the most ATP is the brain. It consumes approximately twenty-five percent of the total energy available. If these processes are not functioning properly, mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia may occur.
2. Calcium Homeostasis: Mitochondria fulfill a key function in cellular calcium management. If this process is poorly executed, the development of neurodegenerative disorders and cancer is at a higher risk.
3. Regulation of Innate Immunity: The mitochondria modulates oxidative stress as it defends cells from damage. The mitochondria has the ability to regulate the survival of immune cells and direct them to places that need extra care within the body.
4. Programmed Cell Death: Programmed cell death is an orderly process where a cell's contents are packaged into a "trash" membrane collection by immune cells to maintain cell numbers and sweep up damaged cells. Interruptions to this healthy regulation are associated with the development of diseases such as cancer.
5. Heat Production: Mitochondria help generate body heat via a process called thermogenesis, which is particularly important in brown adipose tissue.
What Causes Mitochondrial Dysfunction?
- Parasitic infections
- Mold/mycotoxin exposure
- Heavy metal toxicities
- Viral infections
- Bacterial infections
- Glyphosate and pesticide exposure
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Emotional trauma
- Poor diet
- Lack of sleep
- Sedentary lifestyle
How to Support Mitochondrial Health:
- Consume anti-inflammatory, antioxidant-rich whole foods
- Exercise regularly (especially high-intensity interval training)
- Get high-quality sleep
- Address chronic infections
- Spend time in an infrared sauna
- Try fasting
- Reduce toxin exposure
- Support with mitochondrial-specific supplements: CT Minerals, Hydroxygen, CoQ10