Exercise promotes the production of more mitochondria in every organ, including the brain, leading to better mitochondrial energy transformation capacity.
Overeating and excessive nutrient supply can impair mitochondrial function, while periods of fasting or time-restricted eating can be beneficial for mitochondrial health.
Positive psychological states are associated with better mitochondrial health, and promoting positive emotions and experiences may directly impact mitochondrial function and overall well-being.
Deep dives
Moving and Exercise Stimulates Mitochondria and Promotes Health
Moving and being physically active stimulates the production of more mitochondria in every organ, including the brain. Exercise is known to be a protective factor for mental illnesses and various diseases. The act of moving and exercise can increase the number and quality of mitochondria in cells, which leads to better mitochondrial energy transformation capacity.
Avoiding Overeating and Nutritional Oversupply Benefits Mitochondrial Function
Overeating and excessive consumption of sugar, fats, and nutrients can lead to mitochondrial fragmentation and impair mitochondrial energy transformation. Periods of fasting or time-restricted eating, where hunger is experienced intermittently, can be beneficial to mitochondrial health. Avoiding excessive nutrient supply and maintaining a healthy diet can improve mitochondrial function and overall health.
Positive Psychological States Influence Mitochondrial Health
There is evidence suggesting that positive psychological states are associated with better mitochondrial health. Studies have shown that individuals who report more positive experiences and emotions have slightly better mitochondrial health. Additionally, research indicates that positive psychological states can directly influence the mitochondria's biology and energy production capacity. Promoting positive emotions and experiences may have a direct impact on mitochondrial health and overall well-being.
Mitochondrial Health and Individual Differences
The relationship between psychological states and mitochondrial health may vary among individuals. Each person's response to exercise, nutrition, and psychological well-being is unique. Factors such as genetics, metabolism, and personal preferences can influence individual responses to interventions aimed at improving mitochondrial health. More research is needed to understand the individual differences and develop personalized approaches to optimize mitochondrial functioning.
Implications for Mental Health and Empowering Health Choices
Considering the dynamic nature of energetic processes and the connection between mitochondrial biology and mental health, taking care of one's mitochondria can be a path towards better mental and overall health. Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, nurturing positive emotions and experiences, and making choices aligned with personal well-being may contribute to improved mitochondrial function and ultimately empower individuals to take charge of their health.
Emerging evidence suggests mitochondrial dysfunction can cause or contribute to many psychiatric and neurologic disorders. To promote metabolic and mental health, it’s crucial to better understand mitochondria and what we can do to keep them healthy.
As Dr. Martin Picard explains, mitochondria are small components of cells that are involved in just about every disease process, and by extension, in every aspect of promoting health. Since mitochondria are where we transform food energy into energy our bodies use, it makes sense why they are so important for health and longevity. Dr. Picard from Columbia University is one of the most prominent mitochondrial researchers, and he joins us to discuss all things mitochondria-related – from the basics of what mitochondria are and how they function, to the three most important things we can do to keep our mitochondria healthy.
Expert featured in this episode
Martin Picard, PhD
http://www.picardlab.org/
Twitter @MitoPsychoBio
0:00 Introduction to Dr. Martin Picard
3:16 What Are Mitochondria and Where Are They?
9:04 Ecosystem of Mitochondria
10:25 Mitochondria and Disease
16:38 Genetics and Mitochondria
19:18 Lifestyle Choices for Poor Mitochondrial Health
22:08 Impact of Psychological States on Mitochondria
25:55 Medications and Mitochondrial Dysfunction
32:12 How to Improve Mitochondrial Function
52:29 Conclusion
Link to Dr. Picard's talk from the inaugural Metabolic Psychiatry Conference in 2022
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u51JSv4AK-0
The Human Psychobiology Project
https://www.humanpsychobiology.org/
Follow our channel for more information and education from Bret Scher, MD, FACC, including interviews with leading experts in Metabolic Psychiatry.
Learn more about metabolic psychiatry and find helpful resources at https://metabolicmind.org/
About us:
Metabolic Mind™ is a nonprofit initiative incubated by Baszucki Group. Our mission is to provide education and resources in the emerging field of metabolic psychiatry, including ketogenic interventions for mental disorders.
Our channel is for informational purposes only. We are not providing individual or group medical or healthcare advice nor establishing a provider-patient relationship. Many of the interventions we discuss can have dramatic or potentially dangerous effects if done without proper supervision. Consult your healthcare provider before changing your lifestyle or medications.
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#MetabolicNeuroscience
#KetogenicMetabolicTherapy
#NutritionalKetosis#MentalIllness#MentalHealthIsMetabolicHealth#Mitochondria
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