Nitric Oxide, Nose Breathing and One’s Overall Health and Wellness By: Dr. Nishita Ondhia
Nitric Oxide (NO) is a molecule, one nitrogen atom and one hydrogen atom. It is a gas naturally produced in the body and plays a vital role in many bodily functions including regulating blood pressure, regulating blood flow and nerve signalling. It is involved in the immune system and acts as a messenger between cells. It works by regulating oxygenation, circulation and inflammation.
There are two pathways via which our bodies make NO and there are several areas where these pathways work.
Of note, one of the pathways in producing NO is via nasal breathing. NO is produced in the nasal passages and paranasal sinuses; it is released in the airways during inhalation.
Healthy levels of NO are very important in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. An unhealthy gut microbiome is “Dysbiosis” starts in the mouth. Dysbiosis is linked to heart disease, inflammatory bowl diseases, liver disease, chronic kidney disease, brain disorders, diabetes, respiratory diseases and cancer.
NO production during breathing is significantly influenced by how you inhale. Nasal breathing, compared to mouth breathing, promotes higher levels of nitric oxide in the respiratory system and this can have beneficial effects on oxygenation, circulation and one’s overall health and wellness.
Longevity and Health span has many associations in the mouth!
-Dr. Nishita Ondhia