ALPHABETICAL BRAIN VOCABULARY Flash Card #77 - Details WHAT ARE YOUR "MITOCHONDRIA" AND WHY ARE THEY SO IMPORTANT? Your MITOCHONDRIA are the sources of the "cellular energy" inside all of your 100 billion neurons in your brain and nervous system as well as all of the other cells in your body! They are the microscopic "engines" that protect cell walls from damage due to the "free radicals" circulating in your brain cells and other cells, which can cause dangerous and even fatal levels of inflamation in your brain and heart. If you make lifestyle choices to reduce chronic distress, you can protect your brain and nervous system from excessive social stress and even many environmental toxins. By consistently eating well, sleeping well, and exercising moderately, you can improve the quality of your life and live much longer! Both glucose (sugar) and antioxidants work together to protect your brain and they can cause "food cravings." REFERENCES Return to #77: MITOCHONDRIA or BRAIN FACTS MATRIX