To understand why, I need to go into a little biochemistry.
Everyone was born with a different biochemical makeup.
You have trillions of little energy factories that are cellular organelles called mitochondria that help your body run.
Mitochondria convert the oxygen you breathe and food you eat into energy your body can use.
Think of mitochondria as cellular combustion engines.
Having effective mitochondria means your body efficiently burns calories and you have a fast metabolism.
Ineffective mitochondria don’t burn calories and slow down our metabolism.
In all fairness, some of this is genetically determined.
However, the biggest hit comes from your diet.
Food is information that tells your cells and mitochondria what to do.
Likewise, starvation mode means your body clings to fat.
I’m sorry to say that your body has become extremely well-adapted to holding on to fat.
That doesn’t mean you’ve got the option to’t take control.
To optimize mitochondria, you want to eat the right kinds of foods and eat enough of those foods.
Eat plenty of healthy fats.
Healthy fatslike avocados, nuts and seeds, and wild fatty fish are your mitochondria’s preferred fuel.
My favorite “gasoline” for our mitochondria is medium-chain triglycerides orMCT oil, also found in coconut oil.
Colorful,antioxidant-rich plant foodsbecome essential for healthy mitochondria and to reduce oxidative stress.
Avoid sugar and flour.
High-glycemic, high-carb foods put tremendous stress on your mitochondria.
In fact, the biggest driver that damages your entire system is quickly absorbed carbohydrate foods.
Move more and faster.
To remedy that, get eight hours of solid, consistent sleep nightly.
Improve sleep with theseeight simple hacksfor a better night’s sleep.
When you mind your mitochondria, you increase your metabolism to become fit and healthy.
You are never stuck.
He is the host of one of the leading health podcasts,The Doctors Farmacy.
He is also an advisor and guest co-host onThe Dr. Oz Show.
