Mitochondria (the cells’ power plants) deteriorate with age but you can help take care of yours and slow down the aging process with our tips and natural remedies.
Mitochondria are organelles within cells, often referred to as ‘powerhouses’ (1).
They are the site at which cellular respiration takes place, the process whereby glucose is converted into ATP (Adenosine Tri-Phosphate). ATP is a molecule essential for cellular energy metabolism: it provides the energy cells need in order to function.
Mitochondrial function relies on a delicate balance involving calcium transporters and the voltage-dependent anion channel.
As our cells age, mitochondrial dysfunction increases, leading to the accumulation of calcium in the cell matrix. This causes the mitochondria to release pro-apoptotic factors (apoptosis being programd cell death) as well as free radicals which eventually reduces the mitochondria’s potential.
Indeed, over recent decades, scientists have been closely studying the effects of mitochondrial dysfunction on aging. They largely concur that, like telomeres, mitochondria constitute key elements in the fight against the effects of aging and thus require care and attention (2-4).
As we’ve seen, the main threat to mitochondria comes from free radicals. A diet high in trans fatty acids (the fats found in ultra-processed foods), free sugars, salt, alcohol, processed and red meat, etc. encourages free radical production and puts a severe strain on our mitochondria (5).
First of all then, it’s essential to eat a healthy, balanced diet containing plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, vitamins and ‘good’ fats.
It’s equally important to take regular exercise, as long as it’s moderate: strenuous exercise has been shown to promote free radical production whereas moderate activity stimulates antioxidants and the immune system.
The human body is actually a complex ecosystem: any kind of excess upsets the balance and causes the aging process to speed up. So to prevent mitochondrial dysfunction and an acceleration in aging, it’s vital to adopt a healthy, balanced and natural lifestyle.
Also called methoxatin, pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is the cofactor of several redox enzymes. Combined with coenzyme Q10 in the mitochondria, PQQ/methoxatin also supports production of ATP.
A number of studies have also shown a correlation between a lack of PQQ and certain physiological abnormalities.
Most significantly, however, an American study found pyrroloquinoline quinone to have 30,000-50,000 times more antioxidant efficacy than vitamin C, and to be capable of neutralizing thousands of free radicals before being reduced - the same free radicals that cause mitochondrial dysfunction (6-7).
A natural antioxidant, alpha-lipoic acid is present in the mitochondria where it acts as a co-enzyme of pyruvate dehydrogenase and α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, two enzymes that function as catalysts of carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism.
Alpha-lipoic acid thus plays a key role in mitochondrial function and APT production (8-9).
L-carnitine is produced in the liver, brain and kidneys from the amino acids lysine and methionine. Its role in the body is to help transport fatty acids to the mitochondria where they will be metabolised to ultimately provide ATP. Some studies suggest it leads to increased oxygen consumption in the mitochondria.
Given that concentrations of these substances in the body decline with age, researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, conducted an experiment in which they combined acetyl-L-carnitine, to stimulate activity of an enzyme that plays an important role in mitochondria, with alpha-lipoic acid, in particular for its antioxidant action. Their results showed an increase in memory and energy levels in the subjects examined (10).
Alongside a healthy, balanced diet; regular, moderate exercise; sufficient good quality sleep; and cutting down or giving up alcohol, smoking and added sugars, some people also choose to take supplements targeted at the mitochondria, with the aim of delaying the effects of aging.
In this respect, it may help to take supplements containing pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), alpha-lipoic acid and acetyl-L-carnitine, all of which play a role in how mitochondria function.
You could also opt for a synergistic formulation in which all three of these molecules are combined to maximise their benefits (such as Mitochondrial Formula).
References
drv.motscles
You must be connected to your account to leave a comment
Be the first to review this article
423 Days
I always get my order in a timely manner.
CLARK Jodi
426 Days
The order was exactly what I purchased and came in quickly. My package was completely opened on one end and taped with packing tape, but it was all there with safety seals around the neck still. I hope the bottles still contain what I ordered.
REAGAN
428 Days
great description of products & their uses.
Barb M.
429 Days
You have a good product, Berberine, that works, at least it does for me. Price is reasonable and shipping is ok!
FRAKES James
429 Days
Excellent experience and quality products!
Robert Maddox
431 Days
Fast service, great price, excellent products
Vicki Bryant
432 Days
This purchase was in responce to my inquiry of a different supplement. Great staff.
Larry
434 Days
High end products. Fast and easy delivery. Trustworthy company. Great!
BUISSON Laurence
436 Days
Order always right and in a timely manner
Derek Osburn
437 Days
Got fast delivery.
Stephanie Kyle
439 Days
Arrived as promised
MITCHELL Rachel
439 Days
Excellent produt line and service! Very satisfied!
Bropain
442 Days
Had a meniscus tear a couple months ago, think this helped it heal faster
NYBERG Leah
443 Days
Educational. I am learning of new supplements for old problems.
Larry
447 Days
Easy and reasonable price
Cindy Vogel