Metabolic Health is greatly influenced by mitochondrial health.
So what are Mitochondria?
Mitochondria are organelles found in our cells.
They are often described as the powerhouse of the cell
They use glucose in most cases to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) this chemical energy is used throughout the cell to function.
Trillions of mitochondria in the body
On average we have 300 to 400 mitochondria in a cell with highest numbers found in the brain, liver and muscle cells
A muscle cell can contain up to 25,000 mitochondria.
They account for approximately 10% of our body weight.
They are inherited from our mother.
Mitochondria appear to be involved with inflammation both turning the inflammatory process on and off. They seem to be instrumental in the production of hormones. They produce ROS’s (reactive oxygen species or free radicals).
What damages our mitochondria?
Sugar
Fructose
Alcohol
Trans fats
Stress
Poor sleep
What helps our mitochondria?
Reduce sugar
Avoid fructose especially high fructose corn syrup
Reduce alcohol
Avoid damaged fats
Cold therapy exposure
Cold plunges
Sauna
Red light therapy
Intermittent fasting
References:
Dr. Robert Lustig author of Metabolical
Dr. Chris Palmer author of Brain Energy