COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 833
Energy Metabolism Markers
Citric Acid Cycle Metabolites
Citric acid, Cis-aconitic acid, Isocitric acid, ³-Ketoglutaric acid,
Succinic acid, Fumaric acid, Malic acid
Interpretation
Elevations indicate potential vitamin deficiencies (B1, B2, B3, lipoic
acid), mineral deficiencies (magnesium, manganese),
mitochondrial dysfunction, or toxin exposure
Other Energy Markers
Lactic acid, Pyruvic acid
Interpretation
Elevations suggest impaired conversion of pyruvate to acetyl-CoA,
often due to B1 deficiency, exercise, hypoxia, or mitochondrial
dysfunction
Clinical Significance of Energy Metabolism Markers
Elevated citric acid cycle intermediates often indicate blocks in
energy production. These blocks can result from:
Nutrient Deficiencies
B vitamins (particularly B1, B2, B3) serve as cofactors for enzymes in
the citric acid cycle. Deficiencies impair energy production.
Magnesium deficiency affects numerous enzymes in energy
metabolism. Iron deficiency can impact the electron transport
chain.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Mitochondrial damage from oxidative stress, environmental toxins,
or genetic factors impairs energy production. This often manifests
as fatigue, exercise intolerance, and muscle weakness.
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