Why are mitochondria essential to your health and well-being?

Mitochondria are the energy batteries of our cells. They are tiny organelles within most cells of the body that provide respiration and energy. Low metabolism develops in the brain as we age and is noticeable in brain regions where mitochondrial structure has changed. ¹ The mitochondria attempt to replace themselves whenever they are damaged and destroyed. However, mitochondrial biogenesis can be disrupted. Mitochondrial disease, oxidative stress and free radical damage, drinking alcohol, eating a poor diet, and heavy metals can harm the mitochondria. Research on links between mitochondrial dysfunction and Alzheimer’s Disease are underway. The good news is that lifestyle and natural supplements can support healthy mitochondria functioning.

Mitochondrial Biogenesis

Mitochondrial biogenesis is the process by which cells increase mitochondria to replace damaged or non-functioning organelles. This process plays an essential role in maintaining an adequate functional neuronal mitochondrial mass by compensating for damaged mitochondria that have been eliminated. It is highly regulated and requires coordination and crosstalk between the complete set of DNA in a cell (nuclear genome) and mitochondrial genomes. While mitochondrial biogenesis occurs on a regular basis in healthy cells where mitochondria constantly divide and fuse with each other,  it also occurs in response to oxidative stress, increased energy demand, exercise training, and certain diseases.

Mitochondrial Disease

Some conditions are considered mitochondrial diseases. These are chronic and genetic disorders that can be inherited and which occur when mitochondria are altered and consequently can not produce sufficient energy for the body to function efficiently.

• • • Examples are Lebers’, deafness, diabetes, and retinitis pigmentosa.

Other conditions are associated with mitochondria dysfunction.

• • • Examples of eye disease are cataracts, optic nerve atrophy, eye muscle weakness, optic neuropathy, retinal damage, rod-cone dystrophy, and Stargardt’s disease.
    • Examples of brain disorders are Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and possibly other dementia-related disorders where mitochondria problems appear to be critical factors.