Part 2: Aging Is Inevitable... Or Is It? Mitochondrial Health

Dr. Tanya Carroccio, DNP

The mitochondria, our cell’s powerhouse, are responsible for cellular respiration. Similar to our need to breathe, so do our cells. Cells consist of numerous structures with highly-specialized functions, but it’s the mitochondria that are unique because this is where oxygen is combined with nutrient (food) molecules to keep the cell full of energy. Additionally, mitochondria each have their own DNA (mtDNA), and mitochondria regulate cellular death (apoptosis). We know that all forms of life produce energy. When cells wear out or when damage occurs, they are forced to stop functioning and the mitochondrion play a complex role in the cell-death process. One prominent theory of aging considers that damage (or mutations of the mtDNA) is linked to cellular death. Damage that accumulates faster than a mitochondrion can repair itself means this becomes a dysfunctional cell, the first step in aging. How can you reduce the damage and help preserve mitochondrion health to slow the aging process? One of the most important is to control your exposure to toxins. Toxins can be in anything that your body absorbs. BPA and phthalates, which are common industrial chemicals, are found in highly processed foods, plastics, lotions, shampoos, etc., and influence mitochondria health. Yet, we expose ourselves to these and others daily. Here are a few “biohacks” to reduce exposure to any dangerous toxins for your mitochondria and to help optimal function: • Consume whole, unprocessed foods as your primary dietary consumption. Ditch the boxed, canned, and sugary foods. • Eat organic, non-GMO foods. • Exercise for 30+ minutes daily. • Avoid using plastic containers for food storage. • Never microwave food in plastic containers. • Invest in a high-quality tap water filtration system (reduce plastic exposure and carbon footprint). • Check your lotions, creams, cleaning supplies for toxins at www.ewg.org. Next month we venture into the importance of your gut microbiome and provide some interesting research on the gutbrain connection, and how a healthy gut is linked to healthy aging. (Reference: Mitochondria and the Future of Medicine, by Dr. Lee Know.) Dr. Tanya Carroccio, DNP is a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner and owner of a functional medicine and regenerative aesthetics practice in Surprise who lives in Corte Bella. For more information on Dr. Carroccio please visit www.Benehealth.com