Supplements may help protect your cells against damage. However, we need more research on supplements and their potential impact on mitochondrial disease (mito).
Understanding mito
Understanding the role that mitochondria play in your body can help to understand why supplements may work.
Why supplements may be helpful for people with mito
Your body is made up of trillions of cells, each containing mitochondria. They change food and oxygen into energy through a process called cellular respiration. This is how the cell makes energy for your body.
The Electron Transport Chain (ETC) is part of this energy-making process. The ETC contains five complexes. Together, they turn chemical energy into Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). ATP is a molecule that provides energy to the cells in your body. It is like a battery that powers the different parts of your body. The more work a cell does, the more ATP it needs.
How do I know which supplement to buy?
The range of supplement products can be overwhelming, with different options in terms of dosage and form (e.g. powder, gummy, capsule, liquid). You can buy supplements from many places: supermarkets, pharmacies, and health food stores. They are sold in-store and online and do not usually require a prescription.
No research is available to recommend one supplement brand over another. A supplement's effectiveness can vary based on different factors. These include the ingredients, dose, and your metabolic needs.
If you opt to try supplements:
Remember, these are just tips. Always discuss supplements with your health professional to decide together the best option for you.
I have to go to different chemists to get everything. Some chemists don’t stock everything. The and I’ve got to get online. The and sometimes they have it in, sometimes they don’t. One chemist has certain brands that may not be as good, but their prices may be too high, and you have to shop around for a good deal.
- James (Adult with mito, 2022)
Frequently asked questions
How can I make taking supplements a little easier?
Taking supplements can be hard, especially for people who have trouble swallowing and for children with mito. This difficulty can be an important reason not to take supplements.
If your health professional has recommended a supplement to you, you can also ask them about ways to make taking it easier. Here are some suggestions to consider:6
These methods can help make the supplement-taking process easier. Remember to use caution and speak to your health professional to find out what’s best for you.
Helpful resources
The US-based National Institution of Health Office of Dietary Supplements has a dictionary of dietary supplement terms.
Disclaimers:
- When we mention “supplements” on this page, we are specifically referring to vitamin and mineral supplements. These are products intended to add nutritional value to your diet and are not considered food. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
- Resources provided by the Australian Mitochondrial Disease Foundation Limited (Mito Foundation), offers general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. It is essential to assess the suitability of the content for your individual circumstances and make decisions based on your medical condition. The information’s accuracy is subject to change, and we do not guarantee ongoing currency or availability. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, Mito Foundation is not obligated to provide updated information. The copyright for this document and its content belongs to, or is licensed to, Mito Foundation, and reproduction without prior written consent is prohibited.
Acknowledgement: Mito Foundation acknowledges the valuable contributions of our reviewers, we thank Dr David Manser (neurogenetics), Dr Christina Liang (neurologist), Dr Maureen Evans (Director of metabolic medicine) and Lori Bonertz (pharmacist) for their review. As well as Diane, Zach, Fiona, Alice, and Michelle, members of the mito community resource review panel.
Author: Mito Foundation
Version: 1
Date published: 19 September 2024
