Mitochondria and Mental Health: What’s the Connection?

When we think about mental health, we often focus on emotions, thoughts, and brain chemistry. But there’s another important piece of the puzzle: mitochondria. These tiny parts inside our cells are responsible for making energy. When mitochondria don’t work well, it can affect how we feel, think, and function.
Why Mitochondria Matter for Mental Health

• Low Energy in the Brain:
  When mitochondria don’t produce enough energy, the brain can feel foggy, tired, or slow. This can show up as low mood, trouble concentrating, or feeling emotionally flat.
• Stress and Inflammation:
  Damaged mitochondria can increase inflammation in the brain and body. This is now linked to depression, anxiety, and even brain fog.
• Links to Mental Health Conditions:
  Research shows that mitochondrial problems may play a role in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism, and ADHD. Supporting mitochondrial health may help improve these conditions.

How Can You Support Your Mitochondria?

• Healthy Eating:
  A balanced diet with healthy fats, proteins, and low processed sugar can fuel your mitochondria.
• Movement:
  Regular exercise helps your body make new, stronger mitochondria.
• Quality Sleep:
  Rest gives your mitochondria time to repair and recharge.
• Supplements (if recommended by your provider):
  Some people benefit from nutrients like CoQ10 or N-acetyl cysteine, which help mitochondria function better.

Learn More

• Book: Brain Energy by Dr. Chris Palmer
  A powerful look at how improving mitochondrial health can help with depression and other mental health challenges.
• Research: Liu et al. (2023) found that some genetic changes in mitochondria may increase the risk of depression and anxiety through inflammation.
• Podcast: Dhru Purohit’s show (Episode 269) with Dr. Chris Palmer
  They discuss how brain inflammation and mitochondrial health affect mood and focus.​

Final Thoughts
If you’ve been struggling with mood, brain fog, or low energy, supporting your mitochondrial health might help. Talk with your healthcare provider about personalized steps that could work for you.