Mitochondria: The source of our energy (Part 4)
 
Over that past three editions we have been looking at the importance of key mitochondrial nutrients in producing the energy we need. This edition we look at B vitamins, Acetyl L Carnitine and Alpha Lipoic acid in optimising our energy levels.

The Role of B Vitamins in ATP Production

B vitamins play a crucial role in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of the cell. These water-soluble vitamins act as coenzymes in various energy pathways that convert food into the energy we need.

Vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin) and B3 (niacin) are required in various energy steps prior to potential energy entering our mitochondria.  Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) is a component of coenzyme A, which is needed to generate ATP. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) aids in amino acid metabolism and contributes to energy production. Finally, Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is involved important stages of the energy cycle.

Without adequate levels of B vitamins, the efficiency of ATP production declines, potentially leading to fatigue and diminished cellular function. A balanced diet rich in B vitamins or appropriate supplementation can help sustain optimal energy levels and metabolic health.

Acetyl L Carnitine, N-acetylcysteine and Alpha Lipoic Acid

Acetyl L Carnitine (ALA) plays a central role in ATP production by facilitating the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria, where these molecules are oxidized to generate energy. Additionally, ALA helps protect nerves which helps energy production in the brain and aiding in overall mitochondrial function. Supplementary ALA supplementation can help enhance energy efficiency, particularly in tissues with high energy demands, such as muscles and the brain.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) enhances mitochondrial function by replenishing glutathione, a critical antioxidant that protects against oxidative stress, which can damage mitochondrial DNA and impair energy production.

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant that plays a vital role in mitochondrial function. It aids in the regeneration of other antioxidants like glutathione and vitamin C, protecting mitochondrial structures from oxidative damage. ALA is also involved in energy metabolism helping ATP production. Its supplementation may improve mitochondrial efficiency, support cellular energy, and prevent oxidative stress, especially in energy-intensive tissues like muscles and the brain.

Resveratrol and OPC

Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes and berries, supports mitochondrial function by activating SIRT1, a protein involved in energy regulation and antioxidant defence. It enhances mitochondrial biogenesis, protects against oxidative stress, and promotes efficient ATP synthesis, making it valuable for cellular energy and metabolic health, especially in high-demand tissues like the brain and muscles.

Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), potent antioxidants found in grape seeds and pine bark, enhance mitochondrial function by combating oxidative stress and preserving mitochondrial DNA integrity. Mitochondria are highly susceptible to damage from free radicals. The very act of generating energy produces free radicals that if not quickly neutralised, can damage delicate mitochondrial structures.
 
How are your energy levels? MTQ10 includes all these nutrients to help promote optimum energy. For best results, combine MTQ10 with Cell eXtra and Vitamin D in the cooler months. Please contact me for personalised advice.
 Please contact me if you need personalised advice or if you have questions.As always, feel free to contact me for personalised advice.

John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med)
Abundant Health
john@abundant.co.nz
0800 423559
Int’l +64 7 5722343John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice contact John on 0800 423559 or email john@abundant.co.nz.  Join his all new newsletter at www.abundant.co.nz.
MTQ10 for energy and nerve support.PQQ, Co Enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and B vitamins are essential for energy conversion in our cell mitochondria. MTQ10 is a mitochondrial energy formula designed to provide the PQQ, CoQ10, B vitamins, OPC (grape seed extract) and other nutrients including Resveratrol, Alpha lipoic acid, Acetyl- L Carnitine and N- acetylcysteine needed to help our cells make the energy we need to be healthy. Additionally, these ingredients support the health of neurons (nerve cells) by assisting with neuron protection and repair.MTQ10 is an energy formula that is a breakthrough in nutraceutical formulation by combining biologically active compounds including PQQ  (Pyrroloquinoline quinone) Coenzyme Q10, B vitamins, OPC (grape seed extract) found in food or made by the body that help support the critically important function of mitochondria. These are tiny delicately folded cell membranes are responsible for converting the energy from food into the energy we need to live.New formula MTQ10 introduces PQQ which shows real promise in supporting mitochondrial health. Studies show that PQQ helps our energy systems and even helps cells make new mitochondria more effectively. The result is more energy for our bodies.Aging and various disease states can severely limit mitochondrial activity. MTQ10 has been carefully formulated to provide PQQ, Co Q10, B vitamins, OPC (grape seed extract) and other antioxidants that can greatly assist mitochondrial functions. These include helping maintaining the mitochondria membrane, promoting good cell energy functions and greatly supporting cell antioxidant defenses. 

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