The ill effects of mouth breathing

If you experience anxiety, runny/stuffy nose, asthma, fatigue, insomnia, heart problems, and even obesity, you may be falling victim to one of the most rarely identified obstacles to optimal health: over-breathing. The vast majority of us take in far too much air than required, typically by mouth breathing, which can contribute to or even cause some of these common health complaints.
The ill effects of mouth breathing also include:
–         Increased cavities and gum disease — a dry mouth creates the perfect breeding ground for the bacteria that cause dental disease
–         Increased severity in snoring and obstructive sleep apnea
–         Bad breath
Nasal breathing, however, offers the following benefits:
–         Filters the air: it takes your body 15 minutes to clear the bacteria you breathe in through your nose. It takes up to 120 days to clear the same bacteria if breathed in through the mouth.
–         Warms and humidifies the air: the air that enters your nose will reach body temperature by the time it hits the lungs.
–         Better athletic performance: nose breathing during exercise can improve the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity, similar to training at high altitude.
Breaking the over-breathing cycle isn’t hard, but it does take some practice. It is much like starting a healthy diet, you can experience a “detox” effect once you start. The Buteyko Breathing Method developed by the late physician, Dr. Konstantin Buteyko, over 50 years ago, is one of the most proven ways to re-establish nasal breathing and get your mouth — and body — back on track towards optimal health. For more information or to find a Buteyko Breathing Educator, visit www.buteykoeducators.org.
Dr. Max Ebrahimian & Dr. Ariana Ebrahimian – a father/daughter team at Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry. 5 Erba Lane, Scotts Valley, CA 95066 Call 831-438-4411 for questions.