{"id":448,"date":"2016-06-14T07:45:13","date_gmt":"2016-06-14T12:45:13","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/?p=448"},"modified":"2016-06-06T08:49:47","modified_gmt":"2016-06-06T13:49:47","slug":"mitochondrial-dysfunction-a-cause-and-symptom-of-chronic-illness","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/mitochondrial-dysfunction-a-cause-and-symptom-of-chronic-illness\/","title":{"rendered":"Mitochondrial Dysfunction: A Cause and Symptom of Chronic Illness"},"content":{"rendered":"

by\u00a0Andrew P Litchy, ND<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Mitochondriaimage\"<\/a>Mitochondria are \u201ccellular power plants.\u201d\u00a0 They are found in nearly every cell of our bodies, and they help make the energy we need to move, think, and live.\u00a0 When our mitochondria are healthy, our body can function well.\u00a0 However, there are many problems associated with dysfunctional mitochondria.\u00a0 Aging, autism, diabetes, heart disease, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, schizophrenia, and depression are common issues that are associated with mitochondrial dysfunction (1).\u00a0 As we learn more about how to address mitochondrial dysfunction, we find ways to help common diseases and also help us live healthier, happier, and possibly longer.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mitochondria Basics<\/strong><\/p>\n

Mitochondria are small: thousands of mitochondria can fit inside one muscle cell.\u00a0 However, they are the core of metabolism, and the reason why we need oxygen to live.\u00a0\u00a0 Mitochondria use oxygen to create energy the body needs.<\/p>\n

Mitochondria are quite delicate.\u00a0 Inside each tiny mitochondrial are several layers of membranes.\u00a0 These membranes need to be intact for the mitochondria to function well.\u00a0 However, lack of antioxidants, problematic diet choices, genetic mutations, and certain diseases can lead to these membranes being damaged.\u00a0 When these membranes are damaged, the function of the mitochondrial is compromised.\u00a0 Energy production can decrease, and resulting toxic byproducts can wreak havoc on the body.<\/p>\n

Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to a range of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases.\u00a0 Without adequate energy production, the brain cannot function, muscles are weaker, and many symptoms cannot develop normally.\u00a0 Lack of energy production is one reason why mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with such a variety of seemingly unrelated medical conditions.<\/p>\n

Common symptoms of mitochondrial dysfunction include chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating, loss of motor control, muscle weakness and pain, gastro-intestinal disorders and swallowing difficulties, poor growth, cardiac disease, liver disease, diabetes, respiratory complications, seizures, visual\/hearing problems, lactic acidosis, developmental delays and susceptibility to infection(1).\u00a0 People with dysfunctional mitochondria may have dramatic symptoms, others may only have issues with fatigue or chronic infections.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Why does mitochondrial dysfunction develop?<\/strong><\/p>\n

There are many reasons why people develop mitochondrial dysfunction.\u00a0 A common reaction is genetic susceptibility, or damage to the genetic code.\u00a0 Also, certain diseases stress the mitochondria, and may cause dysfunction to develop in addition to the first problem.\u00a0 It can be difficult to determine if mitochondrial dysfunction was the first problem, or a result of previous problems.\u00a0 We do not fully understand every reason why people develop mitochondrial dysfunction, however, we do know risk factors, and how damage can happen.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Environmental Influence<\/strong><\/p>\n

Pollution and toxins negatively affect mitochondria.\u00a0 Smoke, car exhaust, pesticides, heavy metals, and even artificial flavorings can all damage mitochondria.\u00a0 These substances may be impossible to avoid, and for most people they are a stressor that the body can cope with.\u00a0 However, certain people are particularly vulnerable to these toxins, and exposure can cause or exacerbate mitochondrial dysfunction.\u00a0 Genetic testing may reveal who is most at risk for complications.\u00a0 Pesticides from nonorganic food can cause problems, and heavy metals or plastics that enter our food and water supply can cause damage as well.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Oxidative Stress<\/strong><\/p>\n

Free radicals, or reactive oxygen species, can harm mitochondria.\u00a0 It is normal to produce free radicals in day-to-day living, and the body is able to heal from this stress under normal conditions.\u00a0 Breathing and exercise produce free radicals, as do other normal bodily functions.\u00a0\u00a0 However, excess amounts of free radicals are associated with many chronic diseases and DNA damage.\u00a0 Too many free radicals at one time and\/or inadequate dietary sources of antioxidants can lead to damage to the membranes of the mitochondria.\u00a0 This can be a vicious cycle.\u00a0 When there are too many free radicals, it can damage portions for DNA that code for ways to repair mitochondria and heal free radicals.\u00a0 Then, the number of free radicals increases further and significant mitochondrial dysfunction can develop.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Gastrointestinal Concerns<\/strong><\/p>\n

Gastrointestinal function is important to the health of mitochondria.\u00a0 A healthy balance of bacteria in the intestines is important for all aspects of health, however, unhealthy bacteria balance can be particularly harmful to mitochondrial function.\u00a0 When there is dysbiosis, or an imbalance in intestinal bacteria, damaging metabolites from these bacteria can accumulate and interfere with normal metabolism.\u00a0 For example, high levels of Clostridia <\/em>in human intestinal tract can lead to elevated amounts of propionic acid in the blood and urine.\u00a0 High levels of propionic acid cause mitochondrial dysfunction, and is also associated with autism and behavioral problems like hyperactivity, poor concentration, and social problems (2).<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Identifying Issues<\/strong><\/p>\n

Certain symptoms can help determine who would benefit from treating mitochondrial dysfunction.\u00a0 When the mitochondrial dysfunction is severe, there are usually marked and impossible to miss symptoms.\u00a0 In infants and children, failure to meet developmental milestones, weakness, and cognitive problems may be red flags.\u00a0 Conditions like Parkinson\u2019s disease, autism, and certain neurological conditions are often associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, and intricate workups are standard of care in these cases.\u00a0 However, sometimes the symptoms are more generalized and less specific, and so clinicians may not consider mitochondrial health.\u00a0\u00a0 Muscle weakness, easy fatigability, chronic pain, gastrointestinal problems, mood and cognition issues, and having an undiagnosable condition all may be related to a degree of mitochondrial dysfunction.\u00a0 Traditionally, disorders like mitochondrial dysfunction are thought to be severe, highly neurologically disruptive diseases.\u00a0 However, we are finding that there is a spectrum of mitochondrial dysfunction, ranging from no neurological manifestations to life-threatening complications.<\/p>\n

There is no reliable lab test that can identify all cases of mitochondrial dysfunction.\u00a0 An appropriate workup is usually extensive, however, there are some tests that can serve as screening tools.\u00a0 A comprehensive blood and urine test for organic and amino acids, and the activity levels of certain enzymes can yield extremely useful information.\u00a0 Genetic testing can be helpful, and is an increasingly important part of helping people with chronic diseases.\u00a0 Biochemical markers of mitochondrial dysfunction described in the literature include direct (lactate, pyruvate, lactate-to-pyruvate ratio, ubiqui- none, alanine, alanine-to-lysine ratio and acyl-carni- tine) and indirect markers (creatine kinase (CK), carnitine, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and ammonia) (3).<\/p>\n

There is a growing evidence base on how to diagnose mitochondrial dysfunction that happens at the same time as other conditions.\u00a0 For example, elevated lactate and gastrointestinal problems are common in both autism and mitochondrial dysfunction, so it is important to consider other markers such as pyruvate to make a clear recommendations.\u00a0 Furthermore, one meta-analysis of mitochondrial dysfunction and autism reported that of the 68 studies analyzed, there was not a single case of autism with simultaneous mitochondrial dysfunction that presented with like a classic mitochondrial syndrome (3).\u00a0 Without experience in both autism and mitochondrial dysfunction, it is difficult to\u00a0 make an appropriate diagnosis.<\/p>\n

Diagnosing mitochondrial dysfunction can be complicated, and is based on objective clinical, histological, biochemical, molecular, neuroimaging and enzymatic findings.\u00a0 Due to the innate complexity of this issue and the rapidly advancing\/changing evidence base, effective diagnosis and treatment should be conducted by a qualified health professional who has experience with both mitochondrial dysfunction and any other problems that are happening at the same time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Healing Mitochondria<\/strong><\/p>\n

Mitochondrial dysfunction is a complex issue.\u00a0 \u00a0It has many causes and may be intertwined with other problems.\u00a0 Strategies to treat mitochondrial dysfunction effectively will vary from individual to individual.\u00a0 However, there are some general guidelines that may be of benefit to people who suspect they are experiencing mitochondrial dysfunction.<\/p>\n

Therapeutic diet choices are extremely helpful.\u00a0 Eating a variety of antioxidant rich foods will help reduce damage to mitochondria, and can help improve their function (4).\u00a0 Brightly colored fruits and veggies have high anti-oxidant contents, and are recommended.\u00a0 Healthy fats are also recommended, and can help mitochondrial function (5).\u00a0 Wild caught deep sea fish and organic nuts and seeds are good sources of healthy fat.<\/p>\n

Minimizing contact with known stressors to mitochondria is helpful.\u00a0 Avoiding exposure to pollution, stress, and toxic substances is instrumental to healing.\u00a0 Eating organic foods, avoiding plastic food and beverage containers, and staying away from process foods and food additives are great ideas.\u00a0 Drinking filtered water and avoiding water stored in plastic can also be helpful.<\/p>\n

Developing a regular sleep schedule with at least 8 hours of rest is helpful for addressing mitochondrial dysfunction.\u00a0 Meditation or prayer practices can improve your ability to handle day-to-day stresses, and offer a chance for deep relaxation.\u00a0 Improving rest and reducing stress may not cure the cause of mitochondrial dysfunction, however, both allow the body to heal.\u00a0 Without adequate rest and stress reduction, it can be challenging to fully recover.<\/p>\n

Cultivating a healthy digestive system will also help mitochondria.\u00a0 Eating adequate fiber, enjoying probiotic foods like yogurt, drinking plenty of clean water, eating at regular intervals, and avoiding processed foods is a great start(6).\u00a0 However, if digestive problems remain even when following these suggestions, one may need to consult a healthcare provider.<\/p>\n

Certain herbs, supplements, and vitamins will improve mitochondrial function. However, due to the complexity and various causes of mitochondrial dysfunction, following generic protocols and trying random products are highly discouraged practices.\u00a0 Careful diagnosis and individualized treatment from a healthcare provider experiences with mitochondrial dysfunction will not only be more effective then random or internet-guided interventions, but it will save money and help avoid side effects from ill advised treatments.<\/p>\n

Mitochondrial dysfunction can be debilitating, and may complicate an already complex illness.\u00a0 However, with appropriate diagnosis and treatment, there is a great deal that can be done to improve quality of life and address the root causes of mitochondrial dysfunction.<\/p>\n

\n

References:<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Valenti D<\/a>1, de Bari L<\/a> etal. Mitochondrial dysfunction as a central actor in intellectual disability-related diseases: An overview of Down syndrome, autism, Fragile X and Rett syndrome. Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2014 Feb 15. pii: S0149-7634(14)00025-6. doi: 10.1016\/j.neubiorev.2014.01.012. [Epub ahead of print]<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

     <\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Frye RE<\/a>1, Melnyk S<\/a>, et al. Unique acyl-carnitine profiles are potential biomarkers for acquired mitochondrial disease in autism spectrum disorder. Transl Psychiatry. 2013 Jan 22;3:e220. doi: 10.1038\/tp.2012.143.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

       <\/p>\n

        \n
      1. Rossignol DA<\/a>1, Frye RE<\/a> et al. Mitochondrial dysfunction in autism spectrum disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Mol Psychiatry. 2012 Mar;17(3):290-314. doi: 10.1038\/mp.2010.136. Epub 2011 Jan 25.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

         <\/p>\n

          \n
        1. Beaudoin MS<\/a>1, Perry CC<\/a>, In the ZDF rat, impairments in mitochondrial palmitoyl-CoA respiratory kinetics that precede the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy are prevented by resveratrol supplementation. J Physiol. 2014 Mar 17. [Epub ahead of print]<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

            \n
          1. Mollica MP Dr<\/a>1, Trinchese G Dr<\/a>, et al. c9,t11-Conjugated linoleic acid ameliorates steatosis by modulating mitochondrial uncoupling and Nrf2 pathway. J Lipid Res. 2014 Mar 15. [Epub ahead of print]<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

             <\/p>\n

              \n
            1. Viladomiu M<\/a>1, Hontecillas R<\/a>, et al. Nutritional protective mechanisms against gut inflammation. Nutr Biochem. 2013 Jun;24(6):929-39. doi: 10.1016\/j.jnutbio.2013.01.006. Epub 2013 Mar 27.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

              by\u00a0Andrew P Litchy, ND Mitochondria are \u201ccellular power plants.\u201d\u00a0 They are found in nearly every cell of our bodies, and they help make the energy we need to move, think, and live.\u00a0 When our mitochondria are healthy, our body can function well.\u00a0 However, there are many problems associated with dysfunctional mitochondria.\u00a0 Aging, autism, diabetes, heart […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6,63],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-448","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-health","category-health-science"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/448","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=448"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/448\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":452,"href":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/448\/revisions\/452"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=448"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=448"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/bhakticlinic.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=448"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}