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Importance of CO2

Over-breathing is a common trait. One tell-tale sign is mouth breathing. You’re deprived of all the benefits of the nose —click for a quick reminder— and at the same time lose too much carbon dioxide —CO₂.

CO₂ is the waste product, or byproduct, of the body turning food and oxygen —O₂— into energy. I don’t want to call CO₂ a waste product, because that implies you don’t need it - you do. 

CO₂:
  • Regulates blood pH: change in CO₂ affects blood pH; the respiratory chemoreceptors provide feedback and the necessary signal for ventilation ⇒ CO₂ is the biggest stimulus to breathe!
  • Is the catalyst for the release of O₂ from blood into the cells: “For each 1mm drop in carbon dioxide levels from a normal baseline of 40mmHg, there is a 2% reduction in transfer of oxygen to the tissues.” ⇒ you need CO₂ for O₂ to get into your organs and tissues.
  • Dilates smooth muscles: vasodilator and bronchodilator 
So, when you over-breathe, your blood vessels constrict and less oxygen from your blood goes into your organs and muscles ⇒ you feel tired, and you feel dizzy 😵

Take a look at this article for more information on over-breathing.

And remember to breathe with your nose  not with your mouth ❌ 



Stay healthy, stay happy.



Comments (2)

Reply

Yeshim

10-01-22 11:55 AM PDT

Super informative thank you! ????

Reply

Hamra Bakircioglu

10-03-22 11:45 PM PDT

Thank you Yesim! Appreciate the feedback!

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