Buteyko-Course-Manual

7. Nitric Oxide
Nitric oxide (NO), a gas which promotes fitness and health, is produced by
our own bodies in the lining of the arteries and in the nasal passages. Nitric oxide
(NO) is not to be confused with nitrous oxide (N2O) which is better known as
‘laughing gas’.
Important functions of Nitric Oxide in the body
1) Nitric oxide is a powerful vasodilator. This means it relaxes blood vessels,
lowering blood pressure and the heart rate, thus protecting organs from
damage due to a restricted blood supply.
2) Nitric oxide helps improve communication between nerve cells in the
brain.
3) Nitric oxide assists the immune system at fighting off bacteria and viruses.
4) Nitric oxide reduces inflammation.
5) Nitric oxide improves sleep quality.
6) Nitric oxide increases strength and endurance.
The 1998 Nobel Prize was awarded for the discovery of the role nitric oxide
plays as an important cardiovascular signaling molecule.
When we breathe through the mouth, we don’t benefit from the nitric oxide
produced and present in our nasal passages. By breathing through the nose, we
enrich the inhaled air with nitric oxide in our nasal passages which will then
enter the blood so we’ll receive the many health benefits. So make sure to always
keep breathing through the nose unless you have a very good reason not to!
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