Mitochondria are more than just the body’s energy producers—they play a critical role in gut health. At at 2024 Reversing Crohn's & Colitis Summit, host Dr. Christine Schaffner interviews Dr. Hemal Patel on the groundbreaking insights of how mitochondrial function impacts gut diseases like Crohn’s and colitis.
The Link Between Mitochondria and Gut Health
Emerging research shows that mitochondrial dysfunction is at the core of many chronic gut conditions. When mitochondria don’t function properly, cells in the gut lining struggle to repair and protect the digestive tract, leading to inflammation, poor nutrient absorption, and microbiome imbalances.
Key Takeaways
- Mitochondria as the Gut’s Defense System – Healthy mitochondria support cellular repair, reducing gut inflammation and strengthening the intestinal barrier.
- Energy Production & Digestive Health – The gut requires high energy levels to function properly, and mitochondrial efficiency is key to maintaining this balance.
- New Avenues for Treatment – Understanding mitochondrial function opens doors to personalized therapies that target gut health at the cellular level.
How mescreen™ can help
For those seeking to optimize their gut health, mescreen™ provides the first at-home mitochondrial efficiency test—empowering individuals and functional medicine practitioners with real, science-driven data to guide health decisions.
Watch the Full Interview
For deeper insights, watch the full conversation with Dr. Christine Schaffner and Dr. Hemal Patel.