By Jennifer Krieger, ND
As a naturopathic doctor, one of the most inspiring things I like to talk to my patients about is mitochondrial health. Mitochondria are tiny powerhouses inside our cells that help produce energy. They play a crucial role in keeping us feeling energized, strong, and ready to take on the day. When our mitochondria are healthy, we feel vibrant, but when they’re not working well, we can feel tired, sluggish, or even unwell. Luckily, there are natural supplements that can help support our mitochondria and boost our energy levels. Here are my top 3 supplements that can make a difference.
1. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is one of the best-known supplements for mitochondrial energy. This antioxidant is found in every cell in our body, but it’s especially important for energy production in the mitochondria. CoQ10 helps convert the food we eat into usable energy. As we get older, our levels of CoQ10 can drop, which might make us feel more tired. By taking CoQ10 as a supplement, you can help your mitochondria produce more energy, support heart health, and even improve skin health. It’s like giving your mitochondria the fuel they need to do their job better.
2. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is another powerful antioxidant that supports mitochondrial health. ALA helps protect the mitochondria from damage caused by harmful free radicals. It also plays a key role in the process of turning food into energy. ALA is unique because it can work both in water and fat inside the body, helping protect your cells in a variety of ways. Studies show that ALA can help improve energy levels and might even reduce feelings of fatigue. It’s especially useful for people who are feeling run-down or stressed, as it helps the body recover faster.
3. L-Carnitine
L-carnitine is a supplement that helps your mitochondria use fat as a source of energy. It works by carrying fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they can be burned for fuel. This process is especially important for people who want to feel more energized during exercise or physical activity. L-carnitine can also help improve overall energy levels by supporting healthy metabolism. If you’re feeling tired or sluggish, taking L-carnitine might give you the boost you need to feel more energetic and focused throughout the day.
Why Mitochondria Are Important for Energy
Mitochondria are often called the “powerhouses” of our cells because they are responsible for making ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy that fuels almost every function in our bodies. Without ATP, our cells wouldn’t have the energy to perform basic tasks like repairing tissue, growing new cells, or even keeping our organs working. Healthy mitochondria mean that we can produce enough ATP to feel energetic and perform at our best.
Supporting your mitochondria with the right nutrients is one of the best ways to feel more energetic, vibrant, and healthy. CoQ10, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, and L-Carnitine are three supplements that can help support mitochondrial function and give your body the energy it needs.
As always, before starting any new supplement, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional to make sure it’s right for you.
Taking care of your mitochondria means taking care of your energy—and who doesn’t want more of that?
