Foods & Supplements that are Good for Cellular Health
There is an increasing emphasis on cellular health in medicine. Free radicals that are produced by pollution, smoking, and even healthy bodily functions like breathing and moving all cause damage to cells. When healthy cells are damaged, they are more vulnerable to disease, but antioxidant-rich foods and supplements can help protect the cells from free radical damage.
More About Cellular Health
Most of us have concerns about declining health as we age, whether it’s due to disease, decreasing physical function, or the loss of cognitive abilities. There is mounting research showing that healthy aging is all about the health of your cells.
The mitochondria are a little bit like tiny batteries; they power more than 90% of our cells’ energy requirements. When the mitochondria stop working, cells die; this means that mitochondria are the best indicator of physiological age and disease resistance. In fact, they have even been linked to major diseases such as Alzheimer’s, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Age and disease both take their toll on the mitochondria, but so does exposure to chemicals and environmental pollution. Prescription and over-the-counter medications can also have an impact on the health of mitochondria.
Best Foods and Supplements for Cellular Health
If you want to boost the health of your mitochondria, these supplements and foods will help:
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
CoQ10 is an antioxidant produced naturally by your body, and it is used by your cells for growth and maintenance. However, because levels decline as we age, supplementing may be advantageous. CoQ10 shortages lead to oxidative damage, and this antioxidant has also been linked to longevity.
B Vitamins
Because B vitamins are cofactors (required to make chemical reactions happen) in cellular energy generation, they are perhaps the most critical supplement for cellular health. B vitamins are often used to support healthy energy levels, and research shows that they may play a role in mitochondrial metabolism.
Magnesium
Magnesium is needed for a variety of biochemical activities, including normal cellular and mitochondrial function. By taking magnesium supplements, you can benefit your mitochondria, which act as magnesium stores. Low magnesium levels have been linked to a number of diseases associated with aging, including diabetes, osteoporosis, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+)
NAD+ is present in every cell in the body and it’s also a part of hundreds of different metabolic processes. This coenzyme is critical for mitochondrial health and it also helps maintain the integrity of our DNA, protecting the body from disease and the effects of aging.
Dietary Changes
Any foods that are rich in the above nutrients will go a long way towards improving your cellular health. In addition, experts recommend an anti-inflammatory diet, as chronic inflammation interferes with the health of your cells. Eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, reduce your intake of red meat, sugar, dairy, and alcohol, and focus on eating whole grain carbs, rather than breads, cereals, and pastries made with refined white flour.
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