Revive the Mitochondria

Bharti came to see me with extreme fatigue. She was unable to concentrate on her daily activities and it felt like she did not have any energy left. She never connected the symptoms with a pro-inflammatory lifestyle. Among the many pathways in our body the organelles which are the centre to Energy production in the cell are Mitochondria.

Mitochondria  are small spherical shaped structures found inside our cells. Biochemists call them the powerhouses of the cells. They produce chemical energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the currency of the cell. Without these organelles working properly we have a compromised energy production. Mitochondria are very sensitive to damage. Fatigue is the most common symptom of poorly functioning mitochondria.

The key to achieving optimal health and enjoying a vital, energetic old age is to  protect our mitochondria.

STOPPING THE DAMAGE AND REVIVING MITOCHONDRIA:

Stop consuming Processed foods: 

These foods are high in sugar, bad fats, artificial sweetners and chemicals which make them addictive. They cause damage to the mitochondria and prevent them from producing energy properly.

Addressing chronic inflammation:

A pro inflammatory lifestyle which consists of bad diet, lack of exercise, lack of sleep and excessive stress is a colondrum of mitochondrial damage. Read more about chronic inflammation here.Chronic Inflammation

Regular Detoxification:

By following intermittent fasting and eating protective foods, the body has to undergo detoxification on a regular basis. There are many methods of detoxification. Chose the one which suits you the best.

STEPS FOR REVIVING MITOCHONDRIA:

Exercise:

Exercising encourages our body to upgrade its energy factories. Interval training, for example, increases the efficiency and function of the mitochondria.

Antioxidant rich diet:

A diet rich in green leafy vegetables,seeds, nuts, colourful vegetables and berries and beans provide ample antioxidants will recharge the mitochondria. Chemical free meat and dairy in smaller amounts can also provide vital nutrients.

Supplements:

There are many supplements which may help in boosting  mitochondrial revival.These include acetyl-L-carnitine, alpha-lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, n-acetyl-cysteine, NADH, D-ribose, resveratrol and magnesium aspartate. While not a cure-all, these nutrients, taken in conjunction with a whole-food diet, can provide metabolic support for those low on energy. But it should be taken under the guidance of a medical practitioner.

Increasing the omega 3 ratio:

Incorporating omega 3 rich food sources like flaxseeds, walnuts,fish, seaweeds and algal dha in the diet will increase the omega 3 ratio in the body. We should reduce the consumption of omega 6 fattay acid foods in the form of fried foods and refined oils.

Mitochondrial research with respect to aging, is still in its infancy. But there is enough research that shows the role of mitochondria in the smooth functioning of the body. We should put a combined effort of eating right and exercise to recharge our powerhouses.