Nicotine and Mitochondria: Why mtDNA Drops and What That Means

Dr. Kumar’s Take

This paper shows a clear signal: long nicotine exposure is linked to fewer copies of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in blood and brain tissue, and in human nerve cells in the lab. Fewer mtDNA copies usually mean the cell’s power plants are stressed. The study points to autophagy, the cell’s recycling system, as the main driver of that loss.

What to do about it: if you use nicotine, make a plan to taper and quit. Protect your mitochondria with basics that lower oxidative stress and support energy metabolism, like regular exercise, sleep, and a diet rich in colorful plants and omega-3 fats. If you are using nicotine to focus, swap to safer, proven strategies below.

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Vitamin D Boosts Muscle Energy and May Fight Age-Related Muscle Loss

Dr. Kumar’s Take:

This large-scale study in animals, muscle cells, and older adults gives compelling evidence that vitamin D directly improves muscle energy production by boosting mitochondrial function. It does this through its receptor in muscle cells. Supplementation helped older adults gain muscle and strength, making it a powerful tool for preventing age-related muscle loss and fat gain—also known as sarcopenic obesity. If you’re over 60 and vitamin D deficient, this is a call to check your levels and talk to your doctor about supplementation.

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