Years of eating processed foods takes a toll on our cells. Our genetic code mutates, especially sensitive part of our cell is a little part called mitochondria. Mitochondria take in the nutrients and power the cell, they are our energy makers. They also contain the small amount of their own DNA inherited directly from our mother to protect us from different genetic disorders. Mitochondria help regulate the self-destruction of cells (apoptosis), thus one of the mutation makes our cells live forever instead of dying after 50 divisions (mitosis), causing cancer.  They are also necessary for the production of substances such as cholesterol and heme (a component of hemoglobin, the molecule that carries oxygen in the blood). Mutations develop due to prolonged exposure of Oxidants, so called free radicals, that are by products of cells metabolism. The more processed food we take in more free radicals are released into the cell. Unlike nucleus DNA, mtDNA is more susceptible to mutations. Over time our bodies are not able to get rid of the piled up “garbage”and you develop a diseases like cancer, Alzheimer, atherosclerosis and many other life altering illnesses.

I found that certain nutrients may help restore mitochondria.

• (ALC) Acetyl-L-carnitine  fed energy-releasing molecules, improving their efficiency and preventing damage
• (LA) alpha-lipoic acid helped mitochondria reduce production of toxins and cellular waste.
• Coenzyme Q10 increased the rate of electron transport, boosting energy production and protecting the mitochondria from decline. Coenzyme is found in fish, organ meats and the germs of whole grains.
• Sulfur-containing amino acids, kelp for iodine, resveratrol (to mop up toxins), Omega 3, and vitamin D.
  • Antioxidants, vitamin E, lutein and zeaxanthin.  Foods considered to be full of the antioxidants beta-carotene, vitamins C and vitamin E include almost all fruits and vegetables. Lutein and zeaxanthin can be found in leafy greens.

     

          MICRONUTRIENTS to bind and flush toxins: 

• methylated folate, vitamin B12, sulfur, amino acids, N-acetylcysteine, NADH, D-ribose, magnesium aspartate, and fiber.

  HELP YOUR MITOCHONDRIA REJUVENATE IN A FEW SIMPLE STEPS

  EXERCISE : improves the function of your mitochondria. Increasing your muscle mass and cardiovascular conditioning, improves your mitochondria, and they perform more powerful.

  ELIMINATE ALL  that is toxic to your mitochondria, including processed food, sugars, refined sweeteners,dairy products, trans fats, and gluten.

  Eat eight cups of fresh vegetables and fruits daily. A variety of greens , brightly colored vegetables, and the sulfur-rich veggies (cauliflower, cabbage, onions, shallots, garlic, leeks, broccoli,Brussels sprouts, bok choy, and related vegetables). They help body produce glutathione, a potent antioxidant.

  Eat fiber-rich foods to help detox the poisons that can build up in your body.

Using Mediterranean diet provides a lot of necessary nutrients, considering that main ingredient is Olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil may prevent diseases by enhancing mitochondrial function and cellular defense systems. Also resveratrol in red wine improves mitochondrial degeneration.