Mitochondria are the power house of the cell: they are used to produce energy. If there are problems in the mitochondria, energy metabolism is disrupted. The consequences are a lack of energy, tiredness and muscle weakness. In the worst case, nerve disorders and organ damage can even occur.
When it comes to disorders of the mitochondria (mitochondriopathies), a distinction is made between primary and secondary disorders.
Primary mitochondrial diseases are caused by inherited genetic defects. They cause problems in early childhood.
Secondary mitochondrial diseases arise over the course of life, e.g. through contact with harmful substances or diseases.
Common triggers for mitochondrial diseases are:
- Lack of oxygen, e.g. due to circulatory disorders
- Heavy metal and chemical contamination
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Disturbances in sugar metabolism ( insulin resistance )
- Chronic inflammation and infections
- Chronic stress
Mitochondrial diseases are involved in many age-related diseases and metabolic disorders. These include cardiovascular diseases, neuropathy, chronic fatigue , diabetes mellitus , fatty liver , kidney failure, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) , hearing loss and loss of the sense of smell.
The treatment options for mitochondrial diseases are very limited. There are currently no officially approved medications.
However, micronutrients can support mitochondrial function.
L-Carnitine
L-carnitine plays an important role in the production of energy from fat. It is needed to transport fatty acids into the mitochondria. L-carnitine also promotes the health of mitochondria by promoting their detoxification .
An L-carnitine deficiency can lead to chronic fatigue syndrome. Conversely, taking L-carnitine seems to have a positive effect on fatigue syndrome. [1]
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is also essential for energy production in the mitochondria. It is part of the respiratory chain, which uses oxygen to produce energy. At the same time, coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that protects the mitochondria from free radicals.
In mitochondrial diseases, coenzyme Q10 appears to improve muscle strength and reduce muscle fatigue. [2]
magnesium
Magnesium has many important functions in energy balance. The mineral is involved in over 300 enzyme reactions. Too little magnesium can therefore lead to energy deficiency.
There is a close connection between mitochondrial diseases and magnesium deficiency. People with fatigue syndrome often have low magnesium levels. [3]
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects. They are incorporated into the membranes of the mitochondria and are believed to protect the mitochondria from inflammation caused by oxidative stress. [4]
B vitamins
B vitamins are a group of vitamins that have many important functions in energy metabolism. [5]
- Vitamin B1 is important for energy production from carbohydrates
- Vitamin B2 contributes to normal energy metabolism and protects against oxidative stress
- Niacin (vitamin B3) is important for the breakdown of carbohydrates and fats
- Folic acid (vitamin B9) is often too low in mitochondrial diseases
- Vitamin B12 has important functions in the production of energy from carbohydrates and fats
Antioxidants
When energy is produced in the mitochondria, free radicals are produced and if they get out of hand, oxidative stress can occur. When energy is produced, the cell uses oxygen - a very reactive molecule. In mitochondrial diseases, oxidative stress occurs more frequently. In addition, free radicals damage the mitochondria and thus promote mitochondrial diseases.
To counteract this, a good supply of antioxidants is important. These include, for example, vitamin C , vitamin E and selenium . [6]
Secondary plant substances can also have an antioxidant effect.Curcumin , OPC and astaxanthin are very rich in antioxidants. [7]
Conclusion: Mitochondria need many nutrients to function optimally
Many nutrients are involved in energy production in the mitochondria. Antioxidant nutrients can also help to scavenge free radicals in the mitochondria. If these nutrients are lacking, mitochondrial function can easily be impaired.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25714882
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20886510/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1672392/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3961091/
[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35933667/
