Uncovering the vital role of mitochondria in your overall health

March 24th, 2023

Mitochondria are essential organelles that produce cellular energy and play a crucial role in the overall health of the human body. This article explores the structure and function of mitochondria, including their role in exercise, aging, and maintaining cellular health. By understanding the importance of mitochondria, we can work towards maintaining their health and improving overall cellular health.

Mitochondria: structure and function

Mitochondria are tiny organelles that are often referred to as the “powerhouses” of the cell. These structures play a critical role in maintaining the overall health of the human body. In this article, we explore the function and significance of mitochondria in both health and disease.

The endosymbiotic theory suggests that mitochondria originated from free-living bacteria that were engulfed by early eukaryotic cells, leading to the development of a crucial component of the cell’s internal machinery. Today, mitochondria are present in the cells of many living things, including human cells (1).

Mitochondria are responsible for the production of cellular energy through a series of chemical processes that convert glucose into adenosine triphosphate (ATP). In fact, mitochondria generate 90% of the energy required for our bodies to function properly (1). Mitochondria also participate in both cell development and cell death and are essential for the regulation of the cell cycle, cellular differentiation, and other cellular processes.

Mitochondria and exercise

Since mitochondria are responsible for generating energy for the cells, they are essential for exercise and physical activity.

During exercise, the demand for energy in the muscles rises, and the mitochondria produce ATP, the main source of energy for cells. As a result, the muscles may work harder and for longer periods of time (2).

Additionally, the mitochondria aid in the removal of lactic acid from the muscles, which delays the onset of fatigue and discomfort. Overall, mitochondria’s capacity to supply energy to cells is essential for exercise, enabling enhanced physical performance and recovery.

Mitochondria and aging

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are created by the mitochondria as a byproduct of energy generation, are theorized to play a role in some aspects of aging (3).

These particles harm proteins, lipids, and DNA, and also harm the mitochondria’s functioning components.

When the mitochondria become dysfunctional, more ROS are produced, which worsens the damage.

Physical activity is thought to be a great approach to support mitochondrial health by controlling mitochondrial quality control (MQC) and allowing damaged mitochondria to be repaired or eliminated and new mitochondria to be synthesized, restoring the metabolic state.

Mitochondrial biogenesis is the process by which new mitochondria are created within cells. This process is essential for maintaining mitochondrial health and function, as it ensures that cells have a sufficient supply of these vital organelles.

Several factors can stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis, including exercise, calorie restriction, and certain dietary supplements. Exercise, in particular, has been shown to have a powerful effect on mitochondrial biogenesis, as it increases the demand for energy in the muscles and stimulates the production of new mitochondria to meet this demand.

Maintaining mitochondrial health

Mitochondria are essential because they serve as the cell’s main energy source. The cell wouldn’t be able to perform its important activities without the energy provided by the mitochondria, which would result in cellular malfunction and ultimately, cell death.

Furthermore, mitochondrial health and function are essential for maintaining tissue and organ function as well as the general health of cells.

To maintain mitochondrial health, it is essential to lead a healthy lifestyle that includes a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and limiting exposure to contaminants in the environment.

Exercise is particularly important because it promotes mitochondrial quality control and decreases the formation of ROS, boosting the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and raising the bioavailability of nitric oxide, which favors calcium handling and contractility (4).

The importance of mitochondrial health

Mitochondria play a critical role in maintaining the overall health of the human body. They are essential for the production of cellular energy, the regulation of the cell cycle, and other cellular processes. To maintain mitochondrial health, it is important to lead a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a well-balanced diet.

Physical activity is a great way to support mitochondrial health by promoting mitochondrial quality control and decreasing the formation of ROS (5). By understanding the function and significance of mitochondria in cells, we can concentrate on keeping these essential organelles active and functional.