Mitochondria are minute organelles found within the cells of our bodies inherited from our mothers. They are the power plants of the cell, and as such, produce the energy from ATP needed by the body for its many daily tasks. ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is an energy providing molecule derived from ADP (Adenosine Diphosphate) in a process called oxidative phosphorylation, a process whereby ADP picks up an extra phosphate.

100% of the ATP derived from free fatty acid breakdown, and 95% of the ATP derived from the metabolism of glucose sugar, takes place in the mitochondria. The chemical cycles the mitochondria employ, besides producing energy, also produce free radicals. Unfortunately the mitochondria themselves are quite vulnerable to damage from free radicals. As the damage to the mitochondria accumulates, the DNA can also become damaged, and the DNA of mitochondria cannot be repaired.

Further, evidence to date indicates that accumulated mitochondrial damage can render an individual more susceptible to disease. There are nearly 1000 mitochondria in each liver cell but only 20 mitochondria in each sperm cell.

Once the mitochondria are lost in the cell they cannot be replaced hence the increasing fatigue, loss of energy and loss of function of the cells as we lose our mitochondria with age.