Why exercise is essential to make your mitochondria happy

Mitochondria are most affectionately known as the ‘powerhouse’ of our cells and almost act like a second digestive system that takes in nutrients, breaks them down, and creates energy for the cell. Our muscles have the highest mitochondria count of any tissue in the body, with research showing that higher levels of mitochondria in the muscles could be linked to better health.[i]

Despite the mitochondria being the powerhouses of the cell, they still require fuel to carry out their core purpose. However, when our mitochondria don’t function effectively – as a result of the typical western lifestyle – our body isn’t able to perform these basic functions as well as they have done previously, which can contribute to lifestyle-related illness.

The easiest (and at times most cost effective!) way to power your mitochondria is through exercise.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a natural antioxidant synthesized by the body. As we age, our natural levels of CoQ10 deplete in the body, resulting in a lack of energy to the mitochondria and general feelings of fatigue. In addition, the stresses and strains of our busy lifestyle also contribute to the reduction in CoQ10 levels.

Ubiquinol is a synthesised form of CoQ10 that has been reduced to make it more readily usable by the body. While a daily dose of an Ubiquinol supplement will assist in boosting CoQ10 levels and powering the mitochondria, exercise also plays a large role in this, with a study demonstrating that exercise may assist in improving muscle endurance and function.[ii]

As to what kind of exercise is most beneficial for assisting in powering the mitochondria, resulting studies have varied. However, a daily dose of low-moderate intensity exercise is a recommended starting point.

What is Ubiquinol

Ubiquinol is the purest, or synthesized, form of CoQ10. Produced naturally within the body, Ubiquinol is CoQ10 that has been reduced to make it more readily usable by the body. It is also one of the most powerful known fat-soluble antioxidants available. Health benefits of CoQ10 include its ability to help protect the body’s cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and free radicals. It also has a superior absorption ability compared to CoQ10.

Ubiquinol has been listed as a No Doping Ingredient, according to certification issued by the Germany Sports University Cologne.

There are many national brands that make products that contain Ubiquinol. Ask your health practitioner or local pharmacist for the best product for you.

References
[i] Effects of Exercise on Mitochondrial Content and Function in Aging Human Skeletal Muscle – http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1540458/

[ii] A modern approach to the treatment of mitochondrial disease- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3561461/