Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Phospholipids are essential components of all biological membranes, including those of mitochondria. The mitochondrial membrane’s structure and function are highly dependent on the presence of specific phospholipids, such as cardiolipin, which is unique to mitochondria and critical for maintaining mitochondrial integrity, energy production, and the function of respiratory chain complexes. Scientific literature supports the role of phospholipids in mitochondrial health mainly through basic biochemistry and cell biology studies. For example, research has shown that disruptions in mitochondrial phospholipid composition can impair mitochondrial function and are linked to diseases such as Barth syndrome and some neurodegenerative conditions.

In terms of supplementation, there is limited but growing evidence that dietary intake of phospholipids (like phosphatidylcholine or phosphatidylserine) may indirectly support mitochondrial function, particularly under stress or in aging populations, by helping maintain membrane fluidity and integrity. However, direct clinical trials in humans specifically demonstrating that generic phospholipid supplementation robustly improves mitochondrial function are sparse. Most evidence comes from animal models or in vitro studies rather than large human clinical trials. Thus, while there is a strong scientific rationale for the importance of phospholipids in mitochondrial health, the translational evidence from supplementation is moderate and not yet definitive.

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