Mitochondria have a preeminent role in many cells in the human body, producing energy by oxidative phosphorylation. They generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which provides energy for all cellular functions. Efficient mitochondrial functions keeps cells, tissues, and organs working as they are meant to, keeping you in good health.
Mitochondria also control cellular metabolic activity, having wide-ranging effects on processes like neuronal signaling, muscular contraction, and cellular repair. These vital organelles also regulate apoptosis, or planned cell death, which is essential for removing damaged and nonfunctional cells. This control also gives mitochondria an important role in the aging process.
Dr. Bruce Hoffmanis a medical director at the Hoffman Center for Integrative Medicine in Alberta. Qualified and certified in many systems of medicine and healing, he specializes in treating complex medical conditions and improving health. Mitochondria and their role in immune dysregulation, inflammation, and the hormonal cascade are his special interest and expertise. Our body is made up of trillions of cells of various types. The body's health depends on the cells functioning well, but also on the efficient removal of old, damaged, or improperly functioning cells. Mitochondrial control of apoptosis enables them to control disorders like degenerative diseases and cancer.
Mitochondria and their functions are closely connected to cell health and aging. Their chief function is energy generation, which releases reactive oxygen species (ROS) as a byproduct. These highly reactive particles damage DNA, proteins, and fats. Over time, such damage leads to mitochondrial dysfunction. Damaged mitochondria produce more ROS, setting up a damaging cycle. This cycle accelerates the aging process for the cells all over the body.
Mitochondrial dysfunction also creates chronic inflammation, contributing to cellular senescence, age-related diseases, and other characteristics of aging. Mitochondria are often called the powerhouses of the cell, but they are much more. These complex, multifunctional organelles play essential roles in cellular metabolism, health, and the aging process. Some of the disorders resulting from mitochondrial damage are:
- Muscle weakness and incoordination
- Learning disabilities
- Heart, kidney, and liver disease
- Hearing loss and vision problems
- Dementia and other neurological problems
- Digestive disorders
Mitochondrial function is key to cellular health and overall wellbeing. Dr. Hoffman begins the assessment by confirming the problem, using the IGL mitochondrial tests, a fatty acid analysis and the plasmalogen test. These tests may identify mitochondrial dysfunction, after which specific therapy can be initiated.
Returning disturbed mitochondria to good health and keeping them well is a challenging task. It needs a team approach to assist patients in dealing with trauma, managing neuro biofeedback, down-regulating brain waves, and up-regulating vagal tone. Patients also have to learn to monitor their bodies and know their attachment styles.
Controlling the diet is an essential part of a mitochondrial regeneration program. Patients need a list of foods that are safe to consume. Low histamine foods, the Paleo Autoimmune diet, low FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols), and low oxalate foods help lower the inflammatory component of mitochondrial disorder.
Dr. Bruce Hoffmanis a much-respected researcher and educator from Calgary, Alberta. His articles, podcasts, and seminars carry immense value for people interested in integrative medicine and healing. Mitochondrial health is one of his several specializations. Dr. Hoffman's wide-ranging expertise enables him to take on complex cases not relieved by traditional medicine. He helps his patients achieve their goals of optimal health through a customized, integrative approach. There's no better time than today to start improving your cellular health and reduce the effects of ageing and other factors on your body. You can book a consultationwith Dr. Bruce Hoffman to get a running start! Alternatively, if you need more information first, you can book a discovery callwith a staff member of the Hoffman Center.