Mitochondria, often referred to as the body’s “powerhouses,” are essential for metabolism and overall health. They convert essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy the body can readily use. Impaired mitochondrial function can increase the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
Dr. Zheng explained that when mitochondria function optimally, they efficiently convert fuel into ATP. This provides cells with sufficient energy, enabling them to operate effectively and allowing mitochondria to activate fat-burning metabolic pathways at the appropriate times.
Dr. Zheng explained that as people age, mitochondria become more susceptible to damage from factors such as environmental pollutants, medications, and free radicals generated in daily life. This, in turn, makes mitochondrial DNA more prone to mutations.
When mitochondria are damaged, they produce more reactive oxygen species during their functioning, which further harms the DNA, creating a vicious cycle. he said. Zone 1 exercise refers to activities that are very easy to perform, while Zone 2 exercise involves aerobic activities that are slightly more intense than Zone 1.
Examples of Zone 2 exercise include light jogging, brisk walking, or cycling. For Zone 2 exercise, the target heart rate is typically 70 to 80 percent of your maximum heart rate, which is calculated as 220 minus your age. For example, Dr.
Zheng said, if you are 40 years old, your target heart rate for Zone 2 .