Good Energy

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is described in Good Energy as the “energy currency” of the body, synthesized by the mitochondria through metabolic processes. ATP powers cellular functions, including protein synthesis, DNA repair, waste management, and homeostasis, making it essential for maintaining health. Means emphasizes that optimal mitochondrial function is necessary for efficient ATP production, which supports overall cellular health and energy levels. When ATP production falters due to metabolic dysfunction, cells cannot perform these critical tasks effectively, leading to inflammation, oxidative stress, and chronic diseases. This term highlights the microscopic processes that drive the book’s thematic interest in The Link Between Cellular Health and Energy Production.

Means defines “Bad Energy” as a state of metabolic dysfunction caused by modern lifestyle factors that impair cellular health. These factors include poor diet, exposure to toxins, stress, sleep deprivation, and other conditions that damage the mitochondria. Bad Energy manifests as chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and other cellular issues that eventually “trickle up” to cause systemic health problems, such as obesity, anxiety, fatigue, or autoimmune diseases. Means uses the concept of Bad Energy to illustrate how small disruptions at the cellular level can accumulate into significant, interconnected chronic diseases, urging readers to address these root causes through preventative and lifestyle-focused measures.