Gen-X Women: Reignite Your Spark with Mitochondrial Magic! | with Angela Hywood
Insights into symptoms, testing, and evidence-based solutions for enhancing mitochondrial health.
Welcome to 2025...
If you’re feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or like you’re running on empty already, you’re not alone. Many women aged 45 to 60 juggle careers, family, relationships, and caregiving responsibilities. The pressure to “have it all” often leaves little time for self-care, leading to stress, fatigue, and a sense of being stretched too thin.
Fatigue isn’t just about being busy—it’s a signal from your body that it’s time to pause and reset. Many women I work with describe feeling drained, foggy, and unable to bounce back. This isn’t just a reflection of your schedule—it may be tied to something deeper, like the health of your mitochondria.
Why Are You Feeling So Tired?
Your mitochondria are the energy powerhouses of your cells, fuelling everything from focus to physical stamina. Over time, stress, poor sleep, processed diets, and hormonal changes can strain these tiny power plants. When mitochondria don’t function well, it can lead to:
- Persistent fatigue: No amount of coffee or rest seems to help.
- Brain fog: Trouble concentrating or staying focused.
- Inflammation: Increased pain and slower recovery.
- Feeling "stuck in neutral": A sense of being unable to thrive.
Organic Acid Testing (OAT): A Window into Your Mitochondrial Health
Organic Acid Testing (OAT) is a powerful diagnostic tool that provides insights into your cellular and metabolic health by analysing organic acids—key markers of mitochondrial performance and nutrient deficiencies.
OAT is a simple urine test that measures by-products of metabolism. These markers reflect processes like energy production, detoxification, neurotransmitter balance, and oxidative stress.
How Does OAT Relate To Mitochondrial Health
Mitochondria produce energy in the form of ATP. OAT helps evaluate their efficiency by providing insights on:
- Energy Production: Disruptions in the Krebs cycle and ATP synthesis.
- Oxidative Stress: Balance between free radicals and antioxidants.
- Fatty Acid Metabolism: Efficiency of energy conversion from fats and carbohydrates.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Key nutrients like CoQ10, magnesium, and B vitamins.
- Detoxification Pathways: Presence of environmental toxins.
- Neurotransmitter Balance: Brain fog and cognitive fatigue insights.
Who Should Consider OAT?
OAT is particularly beneficial for those experiencing:
- Chronic fatigue and low energy.
- Brain fog or memory issues.
- Unexplained weight changes.
- Chronic inflammation or autoimmune conditions.
- Metabolic disorders like diabetes or insulin resistance.
- Post-viral fatigue or long COVID.
How OAT Results Support Mitochondrial Recovery
By identifying specific areas of dysfunction, OAT allows for a targeted and personalised treatment plan, which may include:
- Nutritional Support: Addressing deficiencies in B vitamins, magnesium, CoQ10, and other key nutrients.
- Antioxidant Therapy: Using glutathione, alpha-lipoic acid, or other antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Optimizing diet, exercise, and sleep to enhance mitochondrial repair and energy production.
What to Expect During Testing
The test involves collecting a simple urine sample at home, which is sent to a specialised laboratory for analysis. Turn around is 2-3 weeks, too easy and non invasive!
The good news is that you don’t have to live in a constant state of exhaustion. By combining solid naturopathic strategies we can help you feel like your BEST self again.
Reignite Your Spark with Simple, Targeted Support
Adaptogenic Herbs
These gentle, natural remedies help your body adapt to stress and restore balance:
- Ashwagandha (Withania): For calm energy, better sleep, and stress relief.
- Rhodiola:
- To combat mental and physical fatigue.
- Siberian Ginseng: For resilience and stamina.
- Astragalus: To support your immune system and overall vitality.
Nutritional Essentials
- Activated B Vitamins: Boost energy and support brain health.
- Magnesium: Eases tension, supports sleep, and improves energy production.
- Alkalising Minerals: Found in fruits and vegetables, these support cellular health and reduce stress-related acidity in the body.
Lifestyle Tweaks to Recharge
- Nourish with Whole Foods: Prioritise colourful vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins.
- Move Gently: Activities like walking or yoga can restore energy without draining you.
- Prioritise Sleep: Create an evening routine that supports deep, restorative rest.
- Stay Hydrated: Even mild dehydration can zap your energy and focus.
Top 5 Nutrients for Mitochondrial Health
Supporting mitochondrial function is key to maintaining energy, vitality, and overall cellular health. Here are the top five nutrients essential for mitochondrial health:
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
Why It’s Important: CoQ10 is a crucial component of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, where it helps produce ATP (energy) and reduces oxidative stress.
The Benefits:
- Boosts energy production.
- Protects mitochondria from damage caused by free radicals.
- Supports heart and brain health.
Sources: Found in small amounts in fatty fish (like salmon and tuna), organ meats, and whole grains. Supplements may be needed for therapeutic doses.
Magnesium
Why It’s Important: Magnesium plays a pivotal role in ATP production, as it stabilizes the energy molecule and assists in many enzymatic reactions.
The Benefits:
- Enhances energy metabolism.
- Supports muscle function and reduces cramps.
- Promotes relaxation and sleep, essential for mitochondrial repair.
Sources: Found in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, legumes, and whole grains.
B Vitamins (B2, B3, B5, B6, and B12)
Why It’s Important: These vitamins are cofactors in energy metabolism and help convert food into usable energy in the mitochondria.
The Benefits:
- Supports the Krebs cycle and electron transport chain.
- Enhances brain function and cognitive clarity.
- Reduces fatigue and supports overall mitochondrial efficiency.
Sources: Found in eggs, dairy, meat, fish, nuts, seeds, and fortified cereals.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
Why It’s Important: ALA is a potent antioxidant that protects mitochondria from oxidative damage and helps regenerate other antioxidants like CoQ10 and glutathione.
The Benefits:
- Neutralises free radicals.
- Supports glucose metabolism and energy production.
- Enhances nerve health and reduces inflammation.
Sources: Found in spinach, broccoli, tomatoes, organ meats, and supplements for higher doses.
L-Carnitine
Why It’s Important: L-Carnitine shuttles fatty acids into mitochondria to be burned for energy, making it essential for mitochondrial function.
The Benefits:
- Enhances fat metabolism for sustained energy.
- Supports heart and muscle health.
- Reduces oxidative stress and mitochondrial fatigue.
Sources: Found in red meat, fish, chicken, and dairy. Supplements are often recommended for therapeutic use.
Additional Supportive Nutrients
- Vitamin D: Regulates energy metabolism and reduces oxidative stress.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Enhance mitochondrial membrane health and reduce inflammation.
- Antioxidants (Vitamin C, E, and Glutathione): Protect mitochondria from oxidative damage.
By incorporating these nutrients into your diet and supplement routine, you can optimize mitochondrial function and support long-term energy and vitality. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations!
Take Control of Your Energy & Vitality
Organic Acid Testing provides unparalleled insight into your mitochondrial health and energy pathways. If you’re experiencing fatigue, brain fog, or other unexplained symptoms, OAT could be the key to understanding the root cause and unlocking your full potential.
Together, we can create a tailored plan that addresses the root causes of your fatigue and helps you feel empowered and energised. Whether it’s through personalised herbal formulations, nutritional support, or lifestyle strategies, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to bring back your spark and harness the magic of your mitochondria. Let’s get you back to feeling like yourself again—because you deserve to thrive, not just survive.
Ready to learn more? Schedule an appointment to see how OAT can guide your journey toward optimal health.
