AugMEND® I MITOCHONDRIAL SUPPORT & ANTIOXIDANT

Mitochondria are membrane-bound organelles found in the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells, which are cells that contain a nucleus and other organelles enclosed within membranes. Often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell, mitochondria are responsible for generating most of the cell's supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is used as a source of chemical energy.

Mitochondria play a crucial role in cellular respiration, the process by which cells convert nutrients into ATP through a series of biochemical reactions. This process involves the breakdown of glucose and other molecules in the presence of oxygen to produce ATP, along with carbon dioxide and water as byproducts.

Apart from energy production, mitochondria are involved in various other cellular processes, including the regulation of cell growth and death (apoptosis), calcium signaling, and the synthesis of certain molecules. They also play a role in the metabolism of fatty acids and amino acids.

Mitochondria play a crucial role in brain health due to the high energy demands of brain cells, known as neurons. Here's how mitochondria contribute to brain function and overall neurological health:

Energy Production: Neurons require a constant and abundant supply of energy to perform their functions, including transmitting signals and processing information. Mitochondria in neurons produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of cells, through oxidative phosphorylation, providing the energy needed for neuronal activities.

Neurotransmitter Production: Mitochondria are involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that enable communication between neurons. Several enzymes involved in neurotransmitter synthesis are localized within mitochondria, highlighting their importance in maintaining proper neurotransmission.

Calcium Regulation: Mitochondria help regulate calcium levels within neurons. Calcium signaling is essential for various neuronal processes, including neurotransmitter release, synaptic plasticity, and gene expression. Mitochondria can rapidly take up and store excess calcium, preventing its accumulation and potential toxicity within neurons.

Antioxidant Defense: Mitochondria generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) as byproducts of energy production. Excessive ROS can damage cellular components, including mitochondria themselves, leading to oxidative stress. However, mitochondria also contain antioxidant defense systems to neutralize ROS and maintain cellular redox balance, thereby protecting neurons from oxidative damage.

Neuroprotection: Dysfunction of mitochondria has been implicated in various neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and stroke. Healthy mitochondrial function is crucial for neuronal survival and resilience against neurodegenerative processes. Strategies aimed at preserving mitochondrial integrity and function may hold therapeutic potential for mitigating neurodegenerative diseases.

In summary, maintaining optimal mitochondrial function is essential for supporting brain health and cognitive function. Strategies to support mitochondrial health, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients, adequate sleep, and stress management, may help promote brain resilience and reduce the risk of neurological disorders

AugMEND® contains a unique and synergistic ingredient formulation to support mitochondrial health:

1. Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) plays a key role in mitochondrial function and facilitates the transport of fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane, where they can be metabolized through beta-oxidation to generate energy. By enhancing fatty acid metabolism, ALCAR supports the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of cells. Studies suggest that ALCAR supplementation may improve cognitive function, memory, and mood, possibly by enhancing mitochondrial function and neurotransmitter synthesis in the brain.
2. N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) is a precursor to the antioxidant glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells, including mitochondria, from oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). By enhancing antioxidant defense mechanisms, NAC may help mitigate oxidative stress within mitochondria and preserve their function.
3. DL-alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) plays a crucial role in mitochondrial energy metabolism. It is involved in key enzymatic reactions within mitochondria, including those of the citric acid cycle (also known as the Krebs cycle) and the electron transport chain. By supporting these metabolic processes, ALA helps optimize ATP production, the primary source of cellular energy. ALA has also been shown to improve glucose uptake and utilization in cells. By enhancing mitochondrial function and glucose metabolism, ALA may help improve cellular energy production and mitigate metabolic imbalances associated with insulin resistance.
4. Pomegranate is a fruit rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols such as ellagic acid and punicalagins, which have been studied for their potential benefits in supporting mitochondrial health. Pomegranate consumption has been associated with various cardiovascular benefits, including improved endothelial function, reduced oxidative stress, and decreased inflammation. Since mitochondria play a crucial role in cardiac energy metabolism and function, pomegranate polyphenols may indirectly support mitochondrial health by promoting cardiovascular health.
5. Rosemary contains various antioxidants, including rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, which help combat oxidative stress and protect mitochondria from damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). By scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative damage, rosemary compounds may help preserve mitochondrial function and integrity.
6. Coenzyme Q10 is a vital compound found in the mitochondria of cells and has the ability to regenerate other antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and glutathione, enhancing their antioxidant activity and extending their effectiveness in combating oxidative stress. This property further contributes to CoQ10's role in protecting mitochondria from damage caused by ROS.
7. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that scavenges free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) within mitochondria, helping to reduce oxidative damage to mitochondrial components, including lipids, proteins, and DNA. By neutralizing ROS, vitamin E helps protect mitochondria from oxidative stress and preserves mitochondrial function and integrity.