What is ATP?

Back to Basics

ATP is a molecule in the body that temporarily stores energy when it's not needed and releases it when it is. When your muscles need that quick burst of energy, ATP is what gives you that energy.

vita-thion^® is the only registered supplement in South Africa that contains ATP, so when you need a natural boost of energy it's the perfect tonic to restore your body's natural energy.

ATP doesn't just supply energy for strenuous activity, its needed any time you are feeling tired and sapped. This is why ATP is often referred to as the 'energy currency of the body'. It's a natural, anytime pick-me-up that helps to keep your body performing at its best. Pick yourself back up with vita-thion^® containing ATP.

What the Experts Say!

'Why' and 'How'

All life forms from bacteria to humans use ATP as their primary source of energy. Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) molecules hold exactly the right amount of energy needed for biological reactions. Nutrients which our bodies extract from food have very low energy bonds and need to be converted into the high energy bonds of the ATP molecule.

Note! vita-thion^® provides ready to use ATP for your body's natural energy stores!

How is ATP produced?

ATP is produced by temporarily storing energy which it provides to the body. ATP is broken down by removing phosphates to release energy to the body. When one phosphate is removed from the ATP molecule, ADP (adenosine di-phosphate) is formed. If another phosphate is removed AMP or adenosine mono-phosphate is formed. When less energy is needed in the body AMP and ADP absorb phosphates through the food we eat and are replenished to form ATP again!

Note! Although ATP stores and transfers energy, the ATP molecule can never be stored so it is always in a state of depletion or regeneration. When you need extra energy, more ATP is needed so it is especially important to replenish your stores during times of stress!

What is ATP's function?

ATP is used for many cellular functions including storing and transferring chemical energy to the muscles and building proteins in cells all over the body. It also regulates the chemical reactions in the body. Even thinking requires the use of ATP energy and it has been found to act as a neurotransmitter which transmits signals between the brain and the body!

Note! So, in essence, without ATP your body would not function!

Nice-to-know Technical Info

Besides providing energy to the body and maintaining its processes there are other functions performed by the ATP molecule.

Namely:

• Communication between the taste receptors in your mouth and your brain;
• Creates pain signals when oxygen is lacking or there has been any injury to the body;
• Sends a message when a toilet breaks is needed!

References:

• The True Original Archive: http://www.trueorigin.org/atp.asp
• M.J. Farabee: http://www.emc.maricopa.edu/faculty/farabee/BIOBK/BioBookATP.html
• ThinkQuest: http://library.thinkquest.org/27819/ch4_3.shtml
• NEWTON, Department of Energy United State of America:
  http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/mole00/mole00072.htm