Feeling tired? Here’s how boosting your mitochondrial health may help
Mitochondria might be tiny, but they play a critical role in your wellbeing and overall energy levels.
Mitochondria are known as the “powerhouse of the cell”.
That is why we need to get acquainted with these tiny, membrane-bound organelles, which are specialised sub-units within our cells.
Mitochondria are responsible for converting the air we breathe and the food we eat into energy that our cells can use to grow, divide and function.
In fact, mitochondria produce about 90 per cent of the energy our cells need to function.
So, how do mitochondria produce energy?
Mitochondria produce energy by turning glucose and energy into a chemical called adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
ATP carries energy in its chemical bonds that your hard-working cellular machinery uses to function and grow.
Once the bonds are broken and the energy released, ATP is recycled by the mitochondria back to its active form to be used again.
How to support our mitochondrial health
Now that science is starting to understand more about mitochondria, attention is turning to how we can support their function and keep them healthy.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help support the functioning of your cellular powerhouses.
1. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet
Research has found inflammatory foods stress and overwork the mitochondria, so reducing your intake of them may help your body remain healthy and strong.
Stay away from over-processed, empty-calorie foods that can cause the mitochondria to produce excessive free radicals and the immune system to produce inflammation, which can damage mitochondrial function.
2. Make regular activity your friend
Moving your body is another great way to give your mitochondria some love.
Studies have shown physical exercise triggers a process known as mitochondrial biogenesis.
The process of biogenesis is young and healthy mitochondria being made, which are more likely to function better, increasing your “bank” of energy.
3. Get enough sleep
Another great way to help stave off mitochondrial dysfunction is to get regular amounts of decent sleep.
In fact, one 2015 Danish study published in the journal Sleep revealed that getting less than seven hours of shut-eye a night can lead to a substantial decrease in mitochondria.
4. Get acquainted with Ubiquinol
It may have an unusual name, but the supplement ubiquinol is a powerful fat-soluble antioxidant that also supports mitochondrial energy production — along with heart health, healthy cholesterol and sperm health and motility.
While ubiquinol – the active (more easily absorbed) form of coenzyme Q10 – is produced naturally in every cell of your body, levels decline as you age, making it harder to stay energised and potentially causing oxidative damage.
Which means supplementing with ubiquinol may help support mitochondrial health for general health and wellbeing; and may also support energy production to boost your get-up-and-go.
Ubiquinol may also support cardiovascular system health, healthy cholesterol and male sperm health.
* This post is brought to you by Kaneka Ubiquinol. Always read the label and follow directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional. Supplements may only be of assistance if dietary intake is inadequate. Please consult your doctor or qualified health practitioner for medical advice. Ubiquinol should be used upon consultation with a healthcare practitioner. Do not change your heart health medication without consulting your healthcare practitioner.
