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A Holistic Neurologist Explains Why You're So Tired

Author:

Ilene Ruhoy, M.D., Ph.D.

November 18, 2016

Integrative Neurologist

By Ilene Ruhoy, M.D., Ph.D.

Integrative Neurologist

Dr. Ruhoy is a board-certified neurologist practicing integrative pediatric and adult neurology in Seattle. She is the owner and founder of the Center for Healing Neurology, and received her M.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine.

Photo by Stocksy

November 18, 2016

The mitochondria are specialized structures—also known as organelles—located inside our cells. They act as tiny energy powerhouses and produce the vast majority of energy, in the form of ATP, that each cell needs to function.

If you are wondering why you should be concerned about your mitochondrial health, dysfunction in these important organelles has been implicated 1 in health concerns ranging from dementia to migraine headaches to chronic fatigue. And it's suspected that many common medications, like acetaminophen and antibiotics, can cause damage to the mitochondria.

As a holistic neurologist, I provide full neurological care and also utilize acupuncture, neurofeedback, and herbal and nutritional guidance to help my patients heal. Our mitochondrial health is a crucial piece of the puzzle of our overall well-being, and we want to keep them happy. Each organ in our body is made up of millions of cells and without effective mitochondria in our cells, our organs will lack the energy to do their jobs.

Optimizing mitochondrial health

Mitochondria contain five enzymes (referred to as complexes I to V) arranged in a chain, and a weak link in the chain can mean trouble for your body. Each individual enzyme requires cofactors to work, and cofactors are frequently found in the form of vitamins and minerals.

I regularly recommend this special cocktail, rich in necessary cofactors, to support and boost our mitochondrial health—your energy levels with thank you.

Coenzyme Q10

This is a mainstay of any mitochondrial support treatment. Coenzyme Q10 carries the electrons that are needed to make the complex chain of enzymes work.

Carnitine

This amino acid derivative plays a critical role in transporting fatty acids to the mitochondria for the production of energy. It also plays an important role in producing a neurotransmitter key to our brain function.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

NAC is a powerful antioxidant that helps fight the effects of free radicals formed by inefficient mitochondrial enzymes.

Magnesium

Mg is an essential cofactor in energy-producing and energy-consuming reactions. Poor utilization of magnesium by the mitochondria results in an imbalance of energy and potential cerebral excitability.

B12 and B1

Deficiencies of these important B vitamins can cause neurological problems, and someone with mitochondrial inefficiency may have a lower threshold for these neurological symptoms.

When I see my patients in person, I tailor this list to meet their specific needs and concerns, but following the above recommendations can do us all some good. Our modern lifestyle—which can't help but put stress on our body and mind—forces us to rely heavily on our mitochondria, and eventually, they will also need our attention and support.