In today’s world of constant environmental stressors, maintaining cellular health is crucial. Pollution, toxins, UV exposure and poor lifestyle habits can all negatively impact our cells by causing oxidative stress, DNA damage, chronic inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Mitochondria, often referred to as the “powerhouses of cells”, are vulnerable to environmental stressors. When compromised, they struggle to generate sufficient cellular energy, leading to a cascade of dysfunctions that impact the whole body. In this article, we will explore how external factors impair mitochondrial function and the role that NAD+ plays in bolstering overall mitochondrial performance and mitigating the damage caused by environmental stressors.
What Are Mitochondria?
Mitochondria are membrane-bound organelles found in almost every cell. They generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which provides energy to cells to keep our bodies functioning. Further, they play a crucial role in metabolic pathways, converting food into energy through a process called oxidative phosphorylation.
Without functioning mitochondria, cells lose their ability to perform properly which leads to fatigue, decreased cognitive function and a higher risk of chronic diseases. It is therefore vital to take action to optimise mitochondrial health, keeping the body performing at its best, whatever environment it is in.
What Are Environmental Stressors?
Any external physical, chemical and biological factors that can negatively impact health and wellbeing are known as environmental stressors. This can include:
- Pollution
- Toxins
- UV radiation
- Poor diet
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Psychological stress
- Extreme temperatures
- Electromagnetic radiation
When the body enters a new physical environment, it becomes susceptible to any of the above factors. This can cause damage to DNA, inflammation and oxidative stress, where an excess of free radicals in the body damages cells.
What is Mitochondrial Resilience?
To maintain cellular viability and function, mitochondria adapt and respond to internal and external stressors. This is called mitochondrial resilience, allowing the body to mitigate the negative impact of stressors in the environment. They achieve this by:
- Improving energy production
- Maintaining balance between mitochondrial fission and fusion
- Removing damaged mitochondria through a process called mitophagy
A higher level of healthy mitochondria therefore results in a greater resistance to external toxins, minimising the damage caused to cells and promoting overall bodily health.
How NAD+ Affects Mitochondria
Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme present in every single living cell and is vital for energy production and cellular repair. It plays an important role in mitochondrial energy production through NADH oxidation in the electron transport chain, a complex process that generates ATP. Resilient organisms often display more efficient NADH oxidation, allowing them to produce sufficient energy even under stress.
NAD+ also regulates the processes of mitochondrial fission and fusion, ensuring that damaged parts of mitochondria are separated and removed (fission), while healthy parts are fused to maintain optimal function (fusion). Additionally, NAD+ influences mitophagy, activating sirtuins that help clear away damaged mitochondria, thus preventing cellular dysfunction.
As we age, NAD+ levels decline, impairing sirtuin function and reducing the efficiency of mitophagy. This accumulation of damaged mitochondria increases the risk of age-related neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
How NADclinic Can Help
Our Enhanced Optima Max supplements contain a powerful 250mg dose of NAD+. They can be taken daily to top-up NAD+ levels wherever you are.
NADclinic also offers NAD+ IV Therapy, which provides a direct replenishment of NAD+ to cells, directly supporting mitochondrial health and resilience to environmental stressors. Key benefits of NAD+ IV Therapy include:
Increases Energy Production
A boost in NAD+ levels creates a boost in ATP, improving overall energy and vitality.
Enhances Cellular Repair and Detoxification
NAD+ supports repair mechanisms, reducing the impact of environmental stressors and toxins on the body.
Delays Ageing
NAD+ helps to slow down dysfunctioning mitochondria, a major contributor to ageing.
Supports Brain Health
NAD+ boosts mitochondrial function in neurons, enhancing cognitive performance and reducing brain fog.
Increases Resistance to Environmental Stressors
NAD+ therapy can improve resilience to daily environmental stress, helping individuals feel more energised and focused.
At NADclinic, we offer personalised therapies tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re battling fatigue, chronic stress, or just looking to maintain optimal wellness, our therapies can be tailor-made to optimise your health and wellbeing.
Conclusion
Prioritising mitochondrial health is essential for improving our health. By boosting NAD+ levels, we can enhance mitochondrial resilience to external stressors, improving energy production and cellular repair. Ultimately, this helps to prevent the onset of age-related diseases and ensures our bodies function optimally by providing sufficient energy and enhancing cellular function.
To maximise your mitochondrial health and build up your defence from environmental stressors, get in touch with NADclinic’s friendly team today.
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