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When Mitochondria Falter
How Dysfunction Accelerates Aging

Hello Capilli Eternal Community,
In our last newsletter, we explored how mitochondria act as the powerhouses of your cells. Today, we focus on what happens when these crucial organelles begin to break down—a condition known as mitochondrial dysfunction.
As you’ll see, when your cells can’t efficiently generate energy, it can have serious consequences for how you age and how well you function daily.
What Is Mitochondrial Dysfunction?
Mitochondrial dysfunction occurs when the mitochondria in your cells stop working optimally. Instead of efficiently converting nutrients into usable energy (ATP), they struggle to keep up with your body’s demands. Common causes and contributors include:
Oxidative Stress: Excess free radicals damage mitochondrial membranes and DNA.
Poor Diet: A lack of essential nutrients and excessive consumption of processed foods can impair cellular energy pathways.
Toxins: Exposure to environmental pollutants, chemicals, and certain medications can negatively affect mitochondrial function.
Genetic Factors: In some cases, inherited mutations can predispose individuals to more rapid mitochondrial decline.
Consequences of Poor Mitochondrial Function
When mitochondrial function declines, your body can’t produce the energy it needs for daily activities and cellular maintenance. This shortfall can lead to:
Chronic Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and reduced stamina, even with adequate rest.
Metabolic Disorders: A higher risk of insulin resistance, obesity, and other metabolic issues.
Neurological Decline: Emerging evidence links mitochondrial dysfunction to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Premature Aging: More oxidative stress in cells can accelerate aging markers, from wrinkles to slower healing.
Research Insights
Growing studies support the link between mitochondrial dysfunction and accelerated aging. Researchers have found that:
Damaged Mitochondria Release More Free Radicals: This can trigger a damaging cycle of inflammation and cell death.
Cellular Stress Pathways Are Overloaded: The body’s repair mechanisms become overwhelmed, contributing to age-related diseases.
Lifestyle Factors Can Mitigate Damage: Early interventions, such as dietary changes and targeted therapies, show promise in preserving mitochondrial health.
Setting the Stage for NAD+
Now that you understand how mitochondrial dysfunction can hasten aging, it’s essential to explore what keeps mitochondria running at their best. In our next newsletter, we’ll examine the remarkable molecule NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and why it’s so critical to mitochondrial efficiency, energy production, and overall longevity.
Stay tuned for practical strategies to protect and revitalize your mitochondrial function. We look forward to helping you further unlock the secrets to enhanced energy and a healthier, more resilient future.
Warm regards,
The Capilli Eternal Team