Patient mitochondrial health and the immune system

Mitochondria are the “powerhouse” of the cell, and mitochondrian health is when carbohydrates and fats are being oxidized to produce energy

Keeping patients’ immune systems healthy has always been important. But now with COVID-19 spreading rapidly, it’s even more crucial in order to stay well, and mitochondrial health is a big part of this.

Michael S. Evangel, DC, is a chiropractic physician in New Jersey in his 35th year of practice. In addition to having lectured on mitochondrial health at Koren Specific Technique Seminars for the last four years, Evangel hosts “The Super Mike Show — America’s Holistic Hero” on the Streaming Health Channel on Roku.

Evangel says that “Healthy mitochondria are vital for not only good health, but for healing and tissue repair. Our cells in general have three priorities. The first is to stay alive. The second priority is to perform its designated function. The third priority is to heal if there is energy left over.

“The two hallmarks of the so-called ‘modern diseases,’ are inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction. These are diseases that were rare in ancient people and occur when mitochondria don’t produce enough energy. They include Alzheimer’s, auto-immune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, autism, diabetes, and cancer. Nothing happens in the human body by accident and everything has a purpose. Our innate intelligence strives for survival, homeostasis, and prioritization,” explains Evangel.

Evangel answered questions about mitochondrial health and the immune system. An edited version of the interview follows.

Why is it important for us to have good mitochondria health?

Mitochondria are thought to have originated from bacteria that were incorporated to become organelles of plant and animal cells. Mitochondria have their own DNA. We get our mitochondrial DNA from our mothers.

Mitochondria are the “powerhouse” of the cell. Mitochondria oxidize fuel from carbohydrates or fats to produce energy. That energy is stored in a molecule called adenosine triphosphate or “ATP.” ATP is truly the molecule of life because all living cells use ATP for physiological processes. When mitochondria “burn” fuel, they add a phosphate to adenosine diphosphate or “ADP” to produce ATP. The bond between that second and third phosphate could be considered the “battery of life” because all living organisms utilize it for energy.

How does mitochondrial health affect the body’s immune system?

A lack of mitochondrial health directly impacts the immune system. All components of the immune system are adenosine triphosphate (ATP) dependent. Without optimal ATP being produced by the mitochondria, our immunity will consequently be weakened.

What can people do to better their health?

The road to mitochondrial health is identical to the road to general health. You are only as healthy as your mitochondria.

Reducing excesses and improving deficiencies are key. Reducing stress, having good sleep habits, avoiding toxins, exercising, eating a healthy diet, having good gut health, staying hydrated, getting sensible sun exposure, avoiding toxins and excessive electromagnetic fields, and having a good attitude are all important!

A nutrient-rich diet is critical for proper mitochondrial function. One nutrient that in my opinion is vital is magnesium. About 80% of Americans are magnesium deficient. Nuts, avocados, spinach, and dark chocolate are some magnesium rich foods. One of the easiest ways to boot magnesium is to take Epsom salt baths. Magnesium can also be taken in supplement form.

What will cause problems or issues with patients?

Avoiding toxins and excessive electromagnetic fields are especially important for maintaining healthy mitochondria. Artificial sweeteners should particularly be avoided since they can kill beneficial gut bacteria.

Are there any particular research studies on mitochondria and the immune system?

Here is an women’s health observational study linking insecticide toxins to two autoimmune rheumatic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3593584.

All autoimmune diseases have a strong mitochondrial dysfunction component.