Learning & education: Mitochondria
In today’s article, we are going to talk about why mitochondria are so vital, discuss some of the problems that can emerge, and examine current methods of testing for mitochondrial function. We will also assess how these testing methods can be used to support optimal health and well-being.
Mitochondria are essential structures present in the majority of eukaryotic life forms, including humans. Mitochondria are responsible for generating more than 90% of the body's energy, primarily in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) [1]. When ATP breaks down, it releases essential energy crucial for maintaining life and ensuring proper functioning of organs [2].
“Powerhouse of the cell” and “battery of a car” are some common analogies you may have heard used to describe the mitochondria [1]. These analogies oversimplify the functions and role of mitochondria in cell physiology. In contrast to powerhouses with a single energy transformation purpose, mitochondria are multifaceted and multifunctional [1].
If you fly with any regularity, you very likely know the feeling of being jet-lagged.
The so-called “jet lag syndrome” includes a variety of symptoms like sleepiness, headache, body pain, fatigue, dry or irritated skin, brain fog, gastrointestinal issues, and more.
Just 1% faster. Just 1% stronger. These are the kinds of gains elite athletes strive for to be just .01 second faster than their competition. But even if you are just a weekend warrior trying to not get injured in this week's softball game, the better tuned your internal metabolic system is at making energy, the faster, stronger, and less prone to injury you will be too.
Did you know that besides staining our tongues blue and turning on smurf mode, methylene blue has been historically used in biochemistry as a dye for microbes and blood smears? Is methylene blue actually good for us? Or is it dangerous?
AI-generated responses are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Accuracy, completeness, or timeliness are not guaranteed. Use at your own risk.
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