In today's fast-paced life, feeling tired, lethargic, or fatigued is a common concern among most adults. A large number of people complain about not having enough energy that their body requires to perform regular activities.

Have you ever thought about the source of energy in your body? We all know that the nutrients we get from food supply energy to our body. However, we must take care of the organelles that help convert nutrients to energy.

The human body is powered by countless cellular processes which provide it with structure and function. Mitochondria are an important part of human cells. These organelles serve as the source of cellular energy, converting nutrients into ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate).

Now, you must be wondering how you can maintain optimal mitochondrial health. In this article, we'll explore the function of mitochondria and the indispensable role of mitochondrial supplements in keeping them in good shape.

The Function of Mitochondria in the Human Body

Each cell in our body works as an individual unit. It consists of a system of organelles that carry out our body function. Mitochondria are a type of organelle inside each cell, known as the powerhouse of the cells.

ATP is highly responsible for cellular energy production. During the process of glucose metabolism, most ATP is synthesized in mitochondria. Oxidative Phosphorylation is the process by which mitochondria convert chemical energy from food into ATP for cells.

Besides, mitochondria play a crucial role in absorbing calcium ions and retaining them until the requirement. They also contribute to the body's heat production.

An individual with mitochondrial dysfunction may feel exhausted and wiped out. Researchers also think poor mitochondrial health can lead to aging, looking and feeling tired.

How Can Supplements Support Mitochondrial Health?

Several mitochondrial supplements are available in the market to nourish human mitochondria. Consuming these supplements is one of the easiest ways to support your mitochondrial health.

However, you must be wondering about how these supplements work on your body. To get the answer, you need to understand the ingredients that mitochondria-supporting supplements include. For example:

●     B Vitamins

Mitochondrial supplements consisting of B vitamins, such as B1, B2, B3, B5, B7, and B12, maintain good mitochondrial health. Maintaining a healthy balance of B vitamins helps support metabolic and biochemical reactions in mitochondria.

For mitochondrial activities, B vitamins act as powerful modulators of energy metabolism. Vitamin B12 helps reduce oxidative stress in the mitochondria, preventing cellular death.

B vitamins also play an important part in processing proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates to generate ATP.

●     Alpha-lipoic Acid (ALA)

Alpha-lipoic acid serves as an enzymatic cofactor that regulates mitochondrial biogenesis, metabolism, and energy production.

The antioxidant properties of ALA can improve mitochondrial performance by preventing excess free radical formation. Several studies have discovered that Alpha-lipoic acid can reduce oxidative mitochondrial dysfunction. Researchers also believe that ALA, along with other antioxidants, like L-Carnitine, can increase the number of healthy mitochondria.

You can find Alpha-lipoic acid in foods, such as organ meat, broccoli, and spinach. Although, the amount of getting it from food items is lower than getting it from mitochondrial supplements.

●     Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Like ALA, CoQ10 or Coenzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant. CoQ10 is considered a key component of the mitochondrial respiration chain. It helps produce cellular energy as well as protect tissues from mitochondrial decline.

Coenzyme Q10 is produced in our body naturally, but with age, its production decreases. Besides dietary supplements, you can get this antioxidant from foods, like fatty fish, organ meat, and broccoli.

●     Creatine

Creatine helps prevent structural and functional damage to mitochondria. According to researchers, mitochondrial supplements with creatine can be used to treat acute mitochondrial dysfunction that may develop after brain injury.

●     Carnitine

Carnitine is derived from the amino acid and contributes to healthy energy production. Research shows that L-carnitine plays a key role in fatty acid oxidation and energy metabolism. Also, this compound shows promise in treating medical conditions and diseases associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.

Other Ways to Support Your Mitochondrial Health

  • Drinking alcohol generates excess free radicals in the body, which affect metabolism along with mitochondrial health. By reducing the quantity of alcohol consumption, one can lower the number of free radicals in the body.
  • Exercising requires a lot of cellular energy. By increasing the energy demand, exercise can keep mitochondria active and healthy.

The Bottom Line

According to health experts, a sedentary lifestyle, including inadequate sleep, a high-stress level, and a nutrient-poor diet, can contribute to mitochondrial dysfunction. These are the major reasons why most adults suffer a loss of energy and look tired these days.

Mitochondrial supplements, including B vitamins, alpha-lipoic acid, coenzyme Q10, creatine, and carnitine, help reduce free radicals and other mitochondria-damaging components. Consult your physician today and let these supplements help you maintain flourished, functional mitochondrial health.