Mitochondrial Supplements: Energizing The Cellular Powerhouse

There is a surprisingly long list of health conditions that are driven by or associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. People with conditions such as diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, neurodegenerative diseases, heart disease, people with fibromyalgia and even age-related decline may all be experiencing mitochondrial dysfunction.

And if NAC supplements are right for you, this article will show you the best place to buy N-Acetyl Cysteine online. Supplement-Sciences has partnered with Fullscript’s professional-grade supplement formulary to provide a 20% discount on every order, so you always have access to the highest quality supplements. Whether you are working to recover from a critical illness, improve fertility, or just seeking to boost energy levels, understanding the benefits of mitochondrial supplements can help you make informed decisions for your health. Join us as we uncover the best mitochondria supplements and empower you to take charge of your cellular health journey.

Conditions Associated with Mitochondrial Dysfunction

Mitochondrial dysfunction is increasingly recognized as a contributing factor in many health conditions. This dysfunction can be a critical factor in common chronic diseases, as well as in the aging process. Here’s an overview of some key conditions associated with mitochondrial dysfunction:

  • Recovery from Critical Illness: Mitochondrial health plays a pivotal role in the recovery phase of critical illnesses. During recovery, the body’s demand for energy and efficient cellular function increases significantly. Healthy mitochondrial function is crucial for this phase, as it ensures adequate energy supply and supports the repair and regeneration of tissues.
  • Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Multiple Sclerosis: These neurodegenerative diseases are linked with mitochondrial dysfunction. In these conditions, impaired energy production in brain cells exacerbates disease progression.
  • Diabetes: Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key factor in diabetes. Abnormalities in mitochondrial function can lead to impaired insulin signaling and glucose metabolism. This contributes to the development and progression of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, as efficient mitochondrial function is crucial for regulating blood sugar levels.
  • Obesity: In obesity, mitochondrial dysfunction plays a role in disrupting fat metabolism. This can lead to an accumulation of fatty acids and contribute to insulin resistance. Improving mitochondrial function may help in managing obesity by enhancing the body’s ability to metabolize fats and maintain energy balance.
  • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome & Fibromyalgia: These conditions, characterized by profound fatigue and musculoskeletal pain, have been linked to reduced mitochondrial function, impacting energy levels.
  • Cardiovascular Diseases: Heart diseases, including heart failure and arrhythmias, are associated with changes in mitochondrial energy production, affecting the heart’s function and health.
  • Aging: Aging is associated with a natural decline in mitochondrial function. This decline contributes to the overall process of aging and the development of age-related diseases.
  • Exposure to Environmental Toxins: Certain environmental toxins can directly impair mitochondrial function, leading to various health issues.
  • Oxidative Stress: Conditions that involve high levels of oxidative stress, such as autoimmune diseases or chronic inflammation, can damage mitochondria, affecting their efficiency and capacity to produce energy.
  • Liver Diseases: Conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis have been linked to mitochondrial abnormalities.
  • Kidney Diseases: Mitochondrial dysfunction can contribute to the progression of chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury.
  • Psychiatric Disorders: Some evidence suggests a link between mitochondrial dysfunction and psychiatric conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
  • Muscular Disorders: Beyond genetic mitochondrial diseases, other muscular disorders, including some forms of muscular dystrophy, may involve mitochondrial dysfunction.
  • Respiratory Disorders: Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma may have a mitochondrial component, impacting cellular energy production in lung tissue.
  • Immune System Disorders: Certain autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, have been associated with changes in mitochondrial function.
  • Hearing and Vision Loss: Some forms of sensorineural hearing loss and age-related macular degeneration are linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Mitochondrial dysfunction can impact hormonal regulation, affecting conditions like thyroid disorders and adrenal insufficiency.
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may also be influenced by mitochondrial function in the gut’s epithelial cells.
  • Migraines: Some studies suggest a potential link between migraines and altered mitochondrial function.

As you can see, strategies to improve mitochondrial function may offer benefits across a broad spectrum of diseases.

What Supplements Improve Mitochondrial Health?

Each of these supplements plays a role in either energy production or antioxidant defense. Both are crucial for healthy mitochondrial function. The necessity of these supplements can vary greatly depending on a person’s health status, food choices, and lifestyle.

  • Multivitamins:
    • B Vitamins:
      • B1 (Thiamine): Essential for carbohydrate metabolism and energy production, with typical doses of 25 to 100 mg.
      • B2 (Riboflavin): Crucial for energy production and electron transport in mitochondria. Common doses are around 5 to 30 mg.
      • B3 (Niacin): Supports energy production and mitochondrial function. Typically, 14 to 16 mg is used.
      • B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Involved in the synthesis of coenzyme A, important for mitochondrial energy metabolism. Usual doses range from 5 to 10 mg.
    • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): CoQ10 is essential for the electron transport chain in mitochondria, crucial for energy production. It also acts as an antioxidant. Typical doses range from 30 to 200 mg per day.
    • Others: Many other nutrients including antioxidants also support mitochondrial health.
  • Alpha-Lipoic Acid: This antioxidant helps to regenerate other antioxidants and is involved in energy metabolism. It’s both water and fat-soluble, enhancing its effectiveness. Common doses range from 100 to 600 mg per day.
  • Magnesium: As a cofactor in over 300 enzymatic reactions, magnesium is critical for mitochondrial function and energy production. Dosages usually are 200-400 mg per day.
  • L-Carnitine: This amino acid facilitates the transport of fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production. Standard doses range from 500 to 2000 mg per day.
  • Creatine: It aids in the formation of ATP, the primary energy molecule, particularly effective in tissues with high energy demands. A typical dose is around 3 to 5 grams per day.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These fatty acids help maintain healthy mitochondrial membranes and support overall cellular health. The dosage can range from 1,000 to 3,000 mg per day of combined EPA and DHA.
  • Resveratrol: This compound is believed to support mitochondrial health and protect against oxidative stress. Dosages typically range from 150 to 500 mg per day.
  • N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): As a precursor to glutathione, an important mitochondrial antioxidant, NAC helps reduce the harmful effects oxidative stress. Common doses are between 600 and 1800 mg per day.
  • Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ): It may encourage the growth of new mitochondria and enhance mitochondrial function. Doses usually range from 10 to 20 mg per day.

Are Mitochondrial Supplements Safe?

When considering the safety of supplements for mitochondrial support, it’s reassuring to know that many of them have a good safety profile when used appropriately. Supplements like Coenzyme Q10, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, Magnesium, B Vitamins, L-Carnitine, Creatine, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Resveratrol, N-Acetyl Cysteine, and Pyrroloquinoline Quinone have been widely studied and are generally well-tolerated by most people. However, like any supplement, they can have side effects, especially if taken in high doses or in combination with certain medications.

Medication Interactions With Mitochondrial Supplements

  • Immunosuppressants: Mitochondria supplements, particularly those containing antioxidants, can potentially interact with immunosuppressant medications used after organ transplantation or for autoimmune conditions. These supplements may modulate the immune system and interfere with the effects of immunosuppressants. It is important to discuss the use of mitochondria supplements with your healthcare provider if you are taking immunosuppressants.
  • Warfarin (Blood Thinner): Mitochondria supplements, particularly those containing CoQ10, may interact with warfarin and affect its anticoagulant effects. This interaction can potentially increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Diabetes Medications: Mitochondria supplements, such as alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), may enhance the effects of diabetes medications, including insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents. This interaction can potentially lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels and appropriate dosage adjustments are crucial when combining mitochondria supplements with diabetes medications.
  • Blood Pressure Medications: Some mitochondria supplements, such as CoQ10, may have mild blood pressure-lowering effects. When taken in combination with antihypertensive medications, this interaction can potentially enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects.

Supplement Interactions with Mitochondria Supplements

  • Iron, Zinc, and Calcium Supplements: It is advisable to take iron supplements and mitochondria supplements at different times to avoid potential interactions and ensure optimal absorption of both.
  • Probiotics: Probiotic supplements can support gut health, which plays a role in nutrient absorption and overall well-being. A healthy gut can potentially optimize the absorption and utilization of nutrients from mitochondria supplements. Consider incorporating probiotics into your routine, but consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate strains and dosages.

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Mitocore by Ortho Molecular Products

Mitocore
Mitocore supplies key mitochondrial micronutrients and a smart combination of alpha lipoic acid, N-acetyl cysteine, and acetyl L-carnitine to boost cellular energy production.*
2-4 capsules per day or as recommended by your health care professional.

Serving Size: 4 Capsules

Amount Per Serving

Vitamin A (from 5,000 IU
as Natural Beta Carotene)
1,500 mcg
Vitamin C (as Ascorbic Acid USP)250 mg
Vitamin D (D3 as Cholecalciferol)25 mcg (1,000 IU)
Thiamin (Vitamin B1)
(from Thiamine Hydrochloride USP)
15 mg
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2 USP)15 mg
Niacin (as Niacinamide USP)15 mg
Vitamin B6
(as Pyridoxine Hydrochloride USP)
15 mg
Folate (from 800 mcg as Quatrefolic® (6S)-5Methyltetrahydrofolic acid glucosamine salt)1,360 mcg DFE
Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin)250 mcg
Biotin50 mcg
Pantothenic Acid (as d-Calcium Pantothenate USP)15 mg
Choline (as Choline Bitartrate)15 mg
Calcium (as Calcium Citrate USP)75 mg
Iodine (from Potassium Iodide)37 mcg
Magnesium (as DiMagnesium Malate)75 mg
Zinc (as TRAACS® Zinc Bisglycinate Chelate)5 mg
Selenium (as Selenium Glycinate Complex)75 mcg
Manganese (as TRAACS®
Manganese Bisglycinate Chelate)
1 mg
Chromium (as O-polynicotinate)‡50 mcg
Potassium (as Potassium Citrate USP)30 mg
N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC)600 mg
Acetyl L-Carnitine Hydrochloride500 mg
Malic Acid (as DiMagnesium Malate)215 mg
Alpha Lipoic Acid200 mg
Mixed Tocopherols50 mg
Green Tea Leaf Extract (Standardized
to contain 45% EGCg (Epigallocatechin gallate))
45 mg
Broccoli Seed Extract (TrueBroc®)
(Standardized to contain 13% Sulforaphane Glucosinolate)
40 mg
Inositol NF15 mg
trans -Resveratrol (from
Polygonum cuspidatum (Roots))
10 mg

PQQ Complex by Protocol for Life Balance

PQQ Complex is formulated for the support of optimal mitochondrial health and energy production.* PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline Quinone) is a vitamin-like nutrient that activates cell signaling pathways directly related to cellular energy production.* PQQ also promotes the formation of new mitochondria within cells and helps to protect mitochondria from free radicals generated during normal cellular respiration.*

PQQ Complex includes CoQ10 and Acetyl-L-Carnitine, two nutrients that also play critical roles in mitochondrial energy production.* As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule daily, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Amount Per One Capsule Serving
Vitamin B-12 …
 1000 mcg (as Methylcobalamin)
Acetyl-L-Carnitine … 200 mg (from Acetyl-L-Carnitine HCl)
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) … 30 mg
BioPQQ® … 20 mg (Pyrroloquinoline Quinone) (as PQQ disodium salt)

OmegaPro 2000

  • 2000 mg EPA+DHA per serving
  • Highest-concentration triglyceride-form omega oil
  • Unmatched support for heart, brain, immune health, and more*

With nearly double the omega-3s as our best-selling ProOmega, ProOmega® 2000 features a breakthrough omega-3 oil. Ultra-concentrated EPA+DHA in the highly absorbable, triglyceride molecular form. In a slightly larger soft gel, this powerful concentrate is ideal for patients’ requiring the highest levels EPA+DHA.

Amount Per 2 Softgel Serving
Total Omega-3s … 2150mg
EPA … 1125mg (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
DHA … 875mg (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
Other Omega-3s … 150mg

Food First!

Although this article discusses supplements in detail, don’t forget that we are absolutely committed to the “Food First” approach to nutrition. When it comes to your health, the totality of your eating habits far surpasses the impact of individual nutrients or any single supplement you consume. Even though this article doesn’t delve into the broader picture of your overall diet, it’s crucial to keep this element at the forefront of our minds. Your food needs to provide all the vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytochemicals to nourish your body systems down to the cellular level.

Food choices, rather than supplements, are the most critical factors for a healthy gut microbiome. These trillions of tiny inhabitants in your gut affect your brain waves; they orchestrate your immune system. They possess the power to create molecules that can switch genes on or off and are even capable of synthesizing neurotransmitters. Opting for organic foods and steering clear of plastic packaging (including those labeled BPA-free) is a smart move to limit toxin exposure. The sum of all these parts leads to a powerful conclusion: the ultimate key to your health lies in the quality and balance of the food you consume. Supplements are secondary.

To Sum It Up

Mitochondrial supplements support the fundamental energy-producing mechanisms in our mitochondria. They work primarily by enhancing mitochondrial efficiency and protecting these cellular powerhouses from oxidative damage. This improved function can lead to increased energy levels, better mental function, and maybe even a slower aging processes.

For those with chronic illnesses, such as heart disease or neurodegenerative disorders, these supplements might offer additional support by improving cellular health and resilience. The overall impact of mitochondrial supplements includes a broad spectrum of wellness benefits, highlighting their importance in maintaining cellular vitality and overall health.


This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice

Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The Supplement Sciences website seeks to provide comprehensive access to the most relevant supplement information along with convenient online ordering. We do not provide medical advice and cannot guarantee that every product suggested is completely without risk. Since each person is unique in their health history and medication use, it is important to discuss supplements with your personal physician. Specifically, pregnant women and individuals being treated for cancer or liver or kidney problems must consult their physician about every nutritional supplement they plan to take. People taking medications for the treatment of HIV or with a history of organ transplant must not take supplements without consulting with their physician.


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