6 Supplements to Boost Mitochondrial Health and Energy in ME/CFS

What are mitochondria? Mitochondria are microscopic organelles – specialized structures found in living cells. They exist in large numbers within just about every cell in our bodies. Mitochondria evolved originally from some of the very first bacteria on Earth. Millions of years ago, when the Earth was still barren of life, select bacteria learned how to use the oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere to make energy. Throughout evolution, a strain of these organisms joined with larger cells and co-evolved into animals, plants, and fungi, and eventually into humans. Known as the “powerhouse of the cell,” mitochondria are our batteries; synthesizing our food and the air we breathe into energy. They are responsible for a whopping 90% of our energy production. Every thought, every physical action we make, is powered to a great degree by these tiny organelles. If our mitochondria stop working, we die within seconds. No energy, no life. Those ancient bacteria are central to our survival. ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome) can be, in part, caused mitochondrial dysfunction. When you feel your batteries running low and your eyelids drooping, it may be your mitochondria calling for help! Luckily, some supplements help boost mitochondrial function and improve stamina. The following is a list of six, including descriptions of how they work: Two antioxidants boost mitochondrial function: Coenzyme Q10 and Glutathione The process of mitochondrial energy synthesis results in some molecular waste. The waste molecules, known as free radicals, are highly reactive and can damage or destroy surrounding tissue, including mitochondria themselves. Inefficient mitochondrial function as a result of illness can result in greater production of free radicals, creating a vicious cycle of tissue damage and loss of stamina. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and glutathione are two nutrients to the rescue! 1. Coenzyme Q10 Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant naturally produced […]

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