By Neurology Solutions
Why Your Mitochondria Matter
Mitochondria are membrane-bound organelles found in the cells of plants, animals, and fungi. They serve as the body’s power plants—the source of energy for every movement, thought, and heartbeat. When mitochondria begin to slow down, which often happens with age, chronic illness, or prolonged stress, the brain is the first organ to feel the effects. This slowdown can appear as fatigue, slower thinking, or changes in mood, memory, and coordination.
At Neurology Solutions, we believe healing begins at the cellular level. By restoring and improving mitochondrial health, we can boost energy, sharpen focus, and help protect the brain from the progressive changes seen in Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and related disorders. To explore ways to improve mitochondrial health, watch the featured video Holistic Reversal of Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Improve Physical, Cognitive and Behavioral Disability While Limiting Risk of Age-Related Disease, presented by Dr. Robert Izor at a recent Neurology Solutions Support Group.
Metabolic Health, Inflammation, and the Brain
Metabolic syndrome is a condition in which the body shifts into a chronic inflammatory state. It often presents in patients who have:
- High blood sugar
- A larger waistline
- High blood pressure or triglycerides
- Low “good” HDL cholesterol
Over time, chronic inflammation can extend to the brain, where it interferes with how nerve cells communicate. Inflammatory molecules can damage synapses—the connection points between neurons—making it harder for brain cells to send and receive signals efficiently. This disruption contributes to memory problems, slower thinking, and accelerated aging in the brain.
Metabolic syndrome can be worsened by lack of sleep, chronic stress, and an unhealthy diet high in processed foods and toxins. The good news: the body’s inflammatory state can be reversed through sustainable lifestyle changes. Eating whole, nutrient-dense foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight all play a major role.
As emphasized in Dr. Izor’s practice, even modest improvements in metabolic health can reduce inflammation and help the brain regain its natural rhythm and vitality.
Supporting Mitochondrial Health
Modern research shows that mitochondria are highly responsive to natural environmental cues—especially light, nutrition, and movement. Below are several evidence-based ways to help your cells thrive.
- Red Light Therapy – Mitochondria produce energy through a process known as the Electron Transport Chain. When this process is disrupted, cellular energy drops. Red-light therapy delivers specific wavelengths of light that activate enzymes within this chain, helping cells restore their ability to make energy efficiently.
- Alternative Fuels – When glucose metabolism becomes inefficient, the body can switch to burning fat for fuel. Consuming healthy fats or following a medically guided ketogenic diet allows the body to produce ketones—an energy source that bypasses damaged pathways, reduces oxidative stress, and nourishes brain cells.
- Exercise and Intermittent Fasting – Both movement and time-restricted eating teach the body to alternate between burning sugar and fat for energy, improving flexibility and activating natural repair mechanisms. These practices can help lower inflammation and promote long-term metabolic health. At Neurology Solutions, our goal is to help patients make safe, sustainable changes that support whole-body healing—down to the cellular level.
- Food as Mitochondrial Medicine – The nutrients we consume become raw materials for our mitochondria. Choosing the right foods reduces oxidative stress and inflammation while supporting cellular repair. This Mediterranean-style eating pattern helps stabilize blood sugar, enhance mitochondrial function, and nurture overall brain health. Focus on incorporating:
- Leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, kale, spinach, and artichoke
- Healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, nuts, and seeds
- Antioxidant-rich foods including berries, cocoa, turmeric, cloves, and cinnamon
- Fermented foods such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut for gut-brain balance
Metabolic Enhancement and the MEND/ReCODE Approach
Dr. Izor also integrates the MEND (Metabolic Enhancement for Neurodegeneration) and ReCODE protocols—comprehensive, evidence-based frameworks designed to restore the body’s energy systems and cognitive function.
These programs target the root causes of neurodegeneration, including inflammation, nutrient depletion, poor sleep, and metabolic imbalance. Key strategies include:
- Low-carbohydrate or ketogenic nutrition plans
- Time-restricted eating (such as 16:8 fasting)
- Personalized nutrient support (B vitamins, omega-3s, magnesium, niacin, NAD⁺ precursors)
- Stress management and restorative sleep
The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Over time, these interventions improve metabolic efficiency, cellular energy production, and overall resilience—potentially changing the trajectory of disease onset and progression.
Start Small, Stay Consistent
Healing at the cellular level begins with small, intentional steps. Start with one simple change—a short daily walk, a consistent bedtime, or swapping processed snacks for whole foods.
These small habits compound over time, helping your cells regain balance and strength.
Dr. Izor encourages patients to become active partners in their care, collaborating with their medical team to personalize strategies that fit their lifestyle and health goals.
To learn more, watch the full video of Dr. Izor’s presentation and explore practical ways to re-energize your brain and body.
