Low Energy
Description
Mitochondria are the “powerhouses” of the cell, responsible for producing ATP—the body’s main energy currency. When mitochondrial function is impaired, even basic activities can lead to exhaustion, brain fog, and chronic illness. Mitochondrial insufficiency may be driven by nutrient deficiencies, toxin exposure (like mold or heavy metals), infections, oxidative stress, or inherited mutations. Functional medicine evaluates mitochondrial status using organic acid and nutrient testing, and supports recovery through targeted supplementation, detoxification, and stress reduction to help restore energy production at the cellular level.
Symptoms
Fatigue not relieved by rest
Poor exercise tolerance or post-exertional malaise
Muscle weakness or pain
Brain fog or memory issues
Dizziness or poor stamina
Migraines or headaches
Low body temperature or cold sensitivity
Anxiety or mood changes
Increased oxidative stress or inflammation
Multisystem dysfunction
Labs & Testing Options
Organic acids test (OAT)
Carnitine, CoQ10, and B-vitamin levels
Glutathione and oxidative stress markers
Mycotoxin or heavy metal testing
Nutrient panels (magnesium, selenium, zinc, alpha-lipoic acid)
MTHFR and other methylation SNPs
Comprehensive stool test (to assess toxin load and gut-derived stress)
Treatment Options
Mitochondrial nutrients: CoQ10, PQQ, acetyl-L-carnitine, ribose
Glutathione and antioxidants (ALA, NAC, vitamin C)
Intermittent fasting or ketogenic diet (for some individuals)
Detox support (binders, sweating, lymphatic work)
Mold and toxin removal (if indicated)
Oxygen therapies (HBOT, ozone)
Stress reduction and circadian regulation
Low-intensity exercise with pacing (avoid overtraining)
Your cells may be starving for energy. Support your mitochondria to restore strength and resilience.