Antibiotics have revolutionized medicine by effectively treating infectious diseases and saving countless lives. Still, there is growing concern about the negative effects of antibiotics including the effects of antibiotics on the mitochondria.
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Research on The Downsides (And Possible Upsides) of Antibiotic Use
Researchers are concerned that prolonged use of antibiotics can disrupt the function of mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of our cells, leading to the production of harmful substances known as reactive oxygen species (ROS). [PMC3760005]
These reactive oxygen species, also known as free radicals, can cause damage the cell membranes within the mitochondria. A study found that mice treated with antibiotics showed increased markers of oxidative stress in their blood, tissue damage, and changes in genes related to antioxidant defense. However, the harmful effects were reduced when an antioxidant called N-acetyl-l-cysteine was administered, or when less harmful antibiotics were used instead. This research sheds light on how antibiotics can cause damage in our cells and offers potential strategies to minimize or prevent this damage, aiming to make antibiotic treatment safer for people. [PMC3760005]
With the mounting evidence that many antibiotics can harm our mitochondria some experts are cautioning against using antibiotics for conditions other than severe infections. But, on the other hand, there are also studies suggesting potential benefits of antibiotics for various conditions, including cancer and certain diseases affecting the mitochondria or the nervous system. [PMC8301944]
Supplements To Improve Mitochondrial Function
There are many nutrients that affect mitochondrial function. You can read about these in our article: Mitochondrial Supplements: Energizing The Cellular Powerhouse. Or, click on the button below to be taken directly to the Fullscript mitochondrial supplement protocol.
Supplements For Mitochondrial Dysfunction:
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. These are listed roughly in order of their benefit:
- 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.
- B Vitamins:
- 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.
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To Sum It Up
If you’ve been taking antibiotics, your main concern has probably been trying to reduce the harm to your digestive health. Fatigue and brain fog can be symptoms of mitochondrial dysfunction. If you are looking to optimize or rebuild your mitochondrial health through dietary supplements, this article links to specific supplements that can help do exactly that.
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.