Mitochondria and Longevity

What are mitochondria and why is it so important?

Mitochondria are the powerhouse for producing energy, ATP – adenosine trisphophate – in our cells and subsequently our bodies. Mitochondria contain their own DNA and “each cell has hundreds to thousands of mitochondria and there are up to 100 mitochondrial DNA copies in each mitochondrion.” (Daniel Frakas, DNA from A-Z, 2000, pg. 73)

The human aging process is tied to the function of mitochondria throughout a person’s life. (Daniel Frakas, pg 94) Interestingly mitochondrial DNA “can readily sustain damage by free radicals.” (Daniel Frakas)

Free radicals are damaging to the body and the fact that mitochondrial DNA can sustain damage is a good thing. Some scientists and researchers have noted that they think, “mitochondria might even be the biological epicenter of aging itself.” (Laura Bell, Science News, Feb 28, 2009)

The belief is that, “mitochondrial metabolism is the key to aging and people are only as young as their mitochondria.” (Laura Bell)

There are ways to help increase ATP in our bodies, such as chiropractic, red laser therapy, exercise, intermittent fasting, reducing insulin resistance, and supplementing magnesium, coQ10 and acetyl-l-carnitine.

Stay tuned for the next blog where I will cover mitochondria and how laser therapy can help!