The Mitochondria, Masters of Life

Dr. Alfred Granite

This chapter introduces mitochondria as the powerhouses of eukaryotic cells, generating the energy currency, ATP, and likely originating from an ancient symbiotic bacterium according to the endosymbiotic theory. Beyond energy production, mitochondria regulate critical cellular processes like apoptosis and are vital for advanced life, with dysfunction linked to numerous diseases, including those exacerbated by poor diet and lack of physical activity. The text explains cellular respiration in detail and highlights how dietary choices and a sedentary lifestyle negatively impact mitochondrial function and contribute to oxidative stress and chronic illness. Intrinsic factors like mitochondrial DNA mutations and age-related decline can also lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and contribute to conditions such as cancer.

Chapter 9 from The Road to Wellness

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