Doctor explains link between mitochondrial damage and chronic fatigue
Physician Pēteris Apinis explains the role of mitochondria in energy production and chronic fatigue, and describes how modern habits can damage these cellular structures.
In his latest article, physician Pēteris Apinis addresses chronic fatigue and its link to mitochondria. Fatigue is among the most common complaints patients raise, and Apinis notes that the problem extends beyond individuals to society and Europe as a whole. Before considering mitochondrial dysfunction, he stresses, doctors should rule out serious conditions such as cancer, anaemia, hypothyroidism, diabetes and chronic lung disease.
Mitochondria are organelles present in every human cell. They act like rechargeable batteries, converting food and oxygen into energy. Cells that need more energy, such as heart muscle cells and liver cells, contain larger numbers of mitochondria. Each mitochondrion has two membranes; the inner membrane is folded to create a large surface for chemical reactions. Mitochondria also carry their own DNA, which is inherited only from the mother.
Beyond energy production, mitochondria take part in the cell life cycle. When a cell is damaged or old, they help trigger apoptosis – controlled cell death – which protects the body from malignant growth. Efficient mitochondria make a person feel vigorous, while their impairment is associated with chronic fatigue, ageing and diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Apinis points to modern lifestyle factors that harm mitochondria. Household chemicals, medications, toxins and viruses contribute to their damage. The Covid-19 pandemic showed widespread mitochondrial injury, leading to prolonged fatigue, muscle weakness and brain fog in some patients. Viruses act as parasites, consuming the host cell's ATP and altering mitochondrial function; some viruses even block apoptosis to keep replicating.
A sedentary lifestyle also promotes fatigue. Regular physical activity acts as a healthy stressor, helping mitochondria fuse and stay functional. Diets rich in sugar and highly processed carbohydrates, on the other hand, can produce insulin resistance and deprive cells of glucose, the fuel mitochondria need. Polypharmacy, chronic stress, an unhealthy microbiome and environmental toxins place further strain on these structures.
According to Apinis, nutrients that support mitochondria include B vitamins, vitamin K and vitamin C. He argues that supplements alone cannot restore mitochondria; a diet based on local Latvian produce – roots, vegetables, greens and fruit – is the best source of these vitamins. He also highlights glutathione, an antioxidant produced by the body. This tripeptide neutralises free radicals, protects mitochondrial DNA and regenerates other antioxidants. However, the body's glutathione production declines after age 40–50 and under the influence of stress, poor nutrition and illness, increasing the risk of chronic fatigue.
