Functional Medicine Protocol

Mitochondrial Health
Biomarker Guide

A comprehensive framework for assessing mitochondrial function through bloodwork, organic acid testing, and specialist markers — to guide targeted supplementation and peptide selection.

Key correlations to assess together

Pattern → intervention mapping

Pattern recognition logic

Blood Work Framework

Designed by Bodybuilding with Aaron · Produced using Claude AI

Core Thesis

Labs are downstream of physiology. Read the story: Symptom → Marker → Mechanism → System → Intervention. When mitochondria suffer, everything suffers — the body's energy-allocation logic is reflected in every panel.

System influences

System Influence on Mitochondria
ThyroidT3 increases mitochondrial biogenesis and oxygen consumption
AdrenalsCortisol excess increases oxidative stress and disrupts mitochondrial membrane
Glucose/InsulinInsulin resistance impairs glucose uptake, reduces mitochondrial respiration
LiverPhase I detox produces ROS; Phase II uses mitochondrial-derived nutrients (glutathione, glycine, ATP)
Immune SystemInflammatory cytokines → mitochondrial dysfunction (especially IL-6, TNF-α)
RenalElectrolyte imbalances affect mitochondrial enzyme function (Mg²⁺, K⁺, CoQ10 dependent)

Ratio signals → support

Systemic connections through ratios
NLR ↑ (>2.5)
Cortisol modulation: Adaptogens + Phosphatidylserine troche
NLR ↓ (<1.0)
Immune resilience: Reishi mushrooms, zinc, astragalus
Ferritin:CRP ↓
Inflammation control: Curcumin + omega-3s + NAC (liver) blend
TG:HDL ↑
Metabolic repair: Berberine, inositol, chromium, ALA
LDH ↑ + AST normal
Mitochondrial support: CoQ10, carnitine, glutathione (liposomal or injection)
Ferritin ↑ + TIBC ↓
Address iron block: Quercetin, lactoferrin, low-dose LDN (Rx)