Mitochondria: Key Factor for Longevity

These cellular organelles are responsible for supplying most of the energy required for cellular activity. Only visible through a microscope, they are the powerhouses of the cell.

The main function of mitochondria is to transform food molecules into energy, which cells then use to perform multiple functions. All cells in the body, except red blood cells, contain mitochondria, although they are most concentrated in muscle and nervous system cells because these tissues require more energy. Mitochondria produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through a process called cellular respiration, during which the nutrients we ingest and absorb combine with the O2 we breathe to convert them into CO2 and H2O, producing ATP along the way.

Several studies, including one conducted by scientists at the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), link mitochondrial dysfunction to the development of neurodegenerative and age-related diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, vascular pathologies, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. For example, it is known that type 2 diabetes patients have altered levels of the mitochondrial fusion protein MF2, and muscle tissue cells in obese individuals show a reduced number and size of mitochondria. Mitochondrial dysfunction is also at the root of metabolic syndrome, cancer, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, sarcopenia, fatigue, inflammation, and immunity problems.

“The health of mitochondria is a superb biomarker that must be balanced to avoid ageing,” explains Dr Vicente Mera, head of the Well-ageing unit at SHA. “There are therapies to improve the state of the mitochondria, such as NAD serum or glycolic acid, which in controlled doses, function as a mitochondrial activator.”

Dr Mariel Silva, also from the Well-ageing unit at SHA, believes the relationship between mitochondria and longevity is significant, as these cellular structures are responsible for energy production in our cells. “It is believed that deterioration in mitochondrial function can contribute to cellular ageing and the development of age-related diseases,” she confirms.

Some bad habits can affect the proper functioning of mitochondria, including poor diet, the consumption of processed and ultra-processed foods, a diet rich in saturated fats and refined sugars, lack of physical exercise, or exposure to toxins such as cigarette smoke and chronic stress.

“To preserve mitochondrial health, it is important to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients, regular exercise, avoiding chronic stress, quality sleep, limiting exposure to environmental toxins, and maintaining a healthy body weight,” the expert advises.

One of the most innovative theories about mitochondria links them to mental health. “Deteriorated mitochondria can have a negative impact on mental health, as they play a crucial role in the brain’s energy metabolism and neurotransmitter production. It has been suggested that impaired mitochondrial function may be involved in the development of mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and Alzheimer’s disease,” explains Dr Silva.

Chronic stress can also cause significant mitochondrial deterioration, as it triggers a physiological response in the body that includes the release of stress hormones like cortisol and the activation of inflammatory pathways, which can negatively affect mitochondrial function and contribute to cellular ageing.

“At SHA, we recommend adopting a holistic approach to caring for mitochondrial health, which includes a healthy and balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, regular physical exercise, and stress-reduction strategies with techniques like meditation and yoga, among many others. Additionally, we monitor the consumption of toxic substances such as tobacco and alcohol, and offer specific treatments and therapies designed to improve mitochondrial function and promote healthy ageing,” says Dr Silva.

Rebalancing NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is one of the best strategies for improving mitochondrial health. “NAD is an excellent biomarker that must be balanced to maintain mitochondria in good condition and avoid ageing. There are supplements to improve the state of mitochondria, in addition to NAD, glycolic acid in controlled doses are mitochondrial activators,” explains Dr Vicente Mera.

NAD is a coenzyme present in almost all cells of the body. Replenishing its levels intravenously improves cardiometabolic health, and also reduces chronic inflammation and both immunological and cognitive decline.

Another biomarker for measuring mitochondrial health is glutathione. Its production can be generated in two ways:

Through the presence of an amino acid called cysteine, which has been shown to raise glutathione levels. Cysteine is usually found in the lowest concentrations of the trio required to produce glutathione. Basically, when it appears, production can finally begin. Therefore, supplementing with cysteine—or its precursors—can be beneficial.

By activating the genes responsible for its production. These genes are part of the body’s detoxification machinery.

Dr Mera also points out that this compound is genetically determined. “Many people produce poor glutathione due to bad genetics. It is very common for some people not to have it, and in that case, they lack the tool that reduces cellular oxidation.”

As we age, our bodies produce less glutathione, and the levels of this protein in tissues decrease. This makes it more difficult for cells to deal with oxidants and toxins. To maintain healthy levels of this important antioxidant, one should increase the capacity of alpha-lipoic acid and other nutrients to trigger glutathione production and thus increase its levels.

Moreover, providing the body with sufficient cysteine is crucial, so the absence of this amino acid does not slow down production. These two solutions—especially if implemented jointly—are the most viable for maintaining healthy glutathione levels.