Mitochondrial Function

How is Mitochondrial Function Improved?

Scientists hypothesize that supplements and lifestyle changes can improve mitochondrial health by increasing the availability of proteins needed for ATP production (AMPK activation, PCG-1a, NAD+, SIRT1/3). They also act as antioxidants, assisting the mitochondria in reducing oxidative stress [R].

Some of the following lifestyle changes and supplements may also increase the number of mitochondria present within the cell, according to limited evidence.

However, remember to speak to your doctor before taking dietary supplements or making any major changes to your lifestyle.

You may try the complementary strategies listed below if you and your doctor determine that they could be appropriate. None of these strategies should ever be done in place of what your doctor recommends or prescribes.

Additionally, supplements have not been approved by the FDA for medical use and generally lack solid clinical research. Regulations set manufacturing standards for supplements but don’t guarantee that they’re safe or effective. Speak with your doctor before supplementing.

Lifestyle Changes That May Improve Mitochondrial Function

1) Intermittent Fasting

Restricting calories and fasting intermittently, such as for fixed hours of the day, decreases energy levels in the body. To compensate, levels of NAD+ increase, which increases the ability of the mitochondria to produce ATP. This results in a subsequent rise in ATP levels due to improved mitochondrial function. This is still only a scientific hypothesis, though [R].

2) Exercise

In a similar manner to calorie restriction and fasting, exercising depletes energy from the body. This, in turn, improves mitochondrial function by increasing the availability of NAD+ molecules required to make ATP, according to some scientists [R].

Additionally, exercise requires energy from the muscles to power through and provides oxygen throughout the body. Continuous exercise increases the number of mitochondria in muscle cells so that adequate ATP levels can be provided for use during exercise [R].

In fact, one study in 8 healthy elderly volunteers found just 2 weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) significantly increased mitochondrial function in the muscle. Additional studies should be encouraged [R].

3) Cold Exposure

Cold temperatures have a profound effect on the mitochondrial number in animals. Exposing rats to swimming in cold

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