Oxygen is the single most important element vital to life. Some say it’s the breath of the Universe, or God’s breath. The human body can survive for weeks without food and days without water. However, in a matter of mere minutes, brain cells suffer irreparable tissue death due to lack of oxygen.
Appropriate levels of oxygen are essential to support cellular activity. Oxygen is absorbed by the blood stream in the lungs, then transported to the cells in your body and brain. Every breath you take converts to energy. All human cells, especially your brain/nervous system cells (called neurons), need energy to do their job. All cells use blood sugar (glucose) and oxygen to create Adenosine Tri-Phosphate (ATP), the energy source that fuels cell function. If your cells need more energy, they use more oxygen. That is why your breathing rate increases when you exercise. If your cells do not receive enough oxygen, they produce less energy.
Optimal levels of oxygen in the body lead to greater endurance, more energy and increased mental alertness. Unlike muscles, your brain cannot store energy. It needs a steady flow of nutrients and oxygen to function normally. The human body is about two-thirds oxygen and the brain demands at least 20% of the body’s oxygen supply. When it doesn’t get this supply it can lead to issues such as sleep apnea, poor concentration, forgetfulness, mood swings, restlessness, depressive thoughts and low drive. Oxygen deficiency can decrease your alertness, memory and judgment.
“Insufficient oxygen means insufficient biological energy that can result in anything from mild fatigue to life threatening disease. The link between insufficient oxygen and disease has now been firmly established.” Dr. W. Spencer Way, Journal of the American Association of Physicians
You can increase your body’s ability to extract and utilize oxygen more efficiently by conditioning your heart through aerobic exercise. Regularly engaging in cardiovascular activities such as running, jogging, swimming, bike riding or jumping rope elevates your heart rate and increases blood flow and oxygen extraction throughout your brain and body.
