If you remember the school basics, mitochondria are the cell’s powerhouse. It’s what creates energy inside your cells to fuel and facilitate proper cell function and biological reactions inside cells.
A lot of science delves into promoting better mitochondrial function and optimizing energy so you exert less energy and get the same biochemical results. Imagine if your body had to spend less energy to grow muscle, heal a wound, or replenish dead cells. The benefits of better mitochondrial function can increase overall health and contribute to a better quality of life.
Finding ways to make your body use fuel more efficiently can help with energy levels and physical fitness. Mitochondria are where cellular energy is produced. This energy is called adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Food, lifestyle habits, and sleep quality affect cellular energy and how cells respond.
Here are six ways to optimize mitochondrial function and support better cell health.
Eating a Healthy Diet
Your mitochondria don’t run on fumes. The energy must come from somewhere. Typically, the foods we eat fuel proper cell function. When you eat anything, it provides some level of nutrients to the cells. The types of food you eat influence how well your mitochondria work. For example, if you eat a healthy diet, your mitochondria are likely to function much better. As a result, your cells will go through processes faster and cleaner.
A high-protein diet emphasizing vegetables full of vitamins and minerals is believed to optimize mitochondrial function. It also helps relieve oxidative stress, which can cause cellular damage, inflammation, and slower biochemical reactions. Of course, a poor diet isn’t the only thing that causes oxidative stress, but eating well can give your cells more reliable and cleaner energy.
Releasing Toxins Helps Mitochondrial Function
Air pollution, unhealthy foods, and a lack of sleep, among other things, can cause toxin buildup in the body. It’s also another contributing factor to oxidative stress levels. Things like chemical exposure can impede normal cell processes. As a result, detoxification is essential to health.
How can people release toxins in their cells? Exercise, sitting in the sauna, eating clean, and maintaining a normal body weight are just some things to consider.
Increase Your Protein Intake
We’ve touched on keeping a clean diet, but protein is a core nutrient supporting healthy mitochondrial function. You can get protein from meat, fish, dairy products, beans, nuts, and other healthy foods. In addition, there are many protein supplements available for sale. Take a look at some of the leading protein powders and bars online or in your local market. Eating a high-protein diet is better for you and will give your cells the boost they need.
Get Plenty of Rest
Sleep and other forms of rest prevent oxidative stress and promote healthy cell function. Prioritize sleep if you want to optimize mitochondrial function. Typically, people should aim for around eight hours of sleep each night. Some people can do fine on less, but sacrificing sleep detracts from recovery and health.
People who struggle to sleep find success in establishing a routine before bed. For example, putting down the phone, limiting caffeine intake, and avoiding sugars will all make it easier for your body to fall asleep when it’s time.
Take More Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral crucial for normal cell function. Higher levels of magnesium promote healthy mitochondria and better overall health. Unfortunately, many people are magnesium deficient, and their body suffers as a result.
Magnesium can be found in dark leafy greens, nuts, and meat products. In addition, you can add magnesium to your diet with a daily supplement or vitamin. The mineral also is great for your heart and cardiovascular system.
Boost Your Antioxidants
Increasing your antioxidants is one of the best things you can do for your mitochondria. Antioxidants fight and neutralize free radicals. Too many free radicals trigger oxidative stress and have been linked to cancer.
Carbon 60 (C60) is often described as a free radical sponge. It’s a powerful antioxidant of 60 carbon atoms forming a strong soccer ball-like structure. C60 supports mitochondrial function by enhancing energy creation in the cells. Many people who take C60 or c60 olive oil and report better energy levels and mental clarity after taking it for 30 days or more according to this page.
Fewer unhealthy people would walk around if more people paid attention to mitochondria and cell health. Small adjustments to lifestyle, diet, and taking supplements can facilitate cell function, giving you more energy and a better lifestyle. Try some of these tips and see how they work for you!
