Oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) are often perceived as exhaust gases and by-products of breathing. However, O2 and CO2 are complementary gases that depend on each other for our survival. Danish physiologist Christian Bohr (father of the famous atomic physicist Niels Bohr) first observed this interdependence in 1904, and his discovery is known as “Bohr’s law” or the “Bohr effect.”

   According to Bohr’s law, “The tendency of hemoglobin to bind oxygen is inversely proportional to the concentration of carbon dioxide.”

   When CO2 levels are low, a condition known as hypocapnia, it leads to hypoxia, or a lack of oxygen in the cells.

   Most of us know that hemoglobin (Hgb) in the blood carries both O2 and CO2. While some gases dissolve freely in blood, their amount is negligible. Each hemoglobin molecule can carry up to four O2 molecules. But how does hemoglobin “know” when and where to deliver oxygen to the cells? This process is complex: cells and body parts with higher activity levels release more CO2. This CO2 dissolves in the blood, forming carbonic acid (HCO3), which slightly lowers blood pH from 7.45 to around 7.4. This drop in pH signals hemoglobin to deliver oxygen to areas with the highest metabolism.

   Without CO2, oxygen would not reach the cells. Hypocapnia, or insufficient CO2, directly results in hypoxia, or insufficient oxygen in the cells.

   In healthy individuals, this mechanism functions smoothly: hemoglobin continuously transports oxygen to the cells while restoring CO2 levels. Problems arise with excessive breathing, or hyperventilation, which affects nearly 90% of the modern population due to stress, processed foods, and misconceptions about deep breathing being beneficial. Overbreathing, often characterized by deep or mouth breathing, adds excess oxygen to the bloodstream without allowing hemoglobin enough time to deliver and release oxygen to the cells, leading to hypoxia. Severe cases of this condition can manifest as asthma, which, rather than being a disease, is a reaction to improper breathing.

   Normal CO2 levels in the blood are about 5.3%, with a range from 2.5% to 7.5%. While CO2 is non-toxic and only becomes harmful at levels exceeding 20%, it plays several crucial roles:

• The formation of free radicals is influenced by oxygen deficiency in cells (hypoxia). The body’s antioxidant defenses rely on CO2 and proper respiration.
• Chronic inflammation is modulated by breathing; hypoxia can either induce or exacerbate inflammation.
• CO2 stabilizes and calms nerve cells. Its deficiency can lead to erratic nerve activity, contributing to psychological issues such as panic attacks, sleep disorders, alcoholism, and depression.
• CO2 helps relax muscles; its deficiency can cause muscle tension.
• Airway tension is often due to hypocapnia (low CO2 levels).
• CO2 regulates blood pH and other bodily fluids.
• It helps maintain calm and regulated breathing.

   When breathing ceases, whether the lungs are full or empty, oxygen flow stops, but metabolism continues. As CO2 levels rise in the blood, hemoglobin releases oxygen into the tissues, enriching them.

   The spleen functions as our “blood reservoir,” containing nearly 20% of our total blood volume. When blood oxygen levels are low, the spleen pumps more blood into circulation. If oxygen levels remain insufficient, the kidneys signal the bone marrow to produce more blood cells. This process is similar to experiencing high-altitude conditions, which can be simulated through this method, mimicking the benefits of living at high elevations.

   Dr. Konstantin Pavlovich Buteyko (1923 – 2003), a Soviet scientist, developed a non-medication treatment method known as the Buteyko Method. After suffering from high blood pressure and finding limited relief from conventional medicine, he explored how his breathing patterns might have contributed to his condition. By normalizing his breathing, he not only reduced his blood pressure but also alleviated various symptoms. He later applied this technique to his patients, particularly those with asthma and high blood pressure.

   The Buteyko Method is simple to learn but requires discipline and consistent practice to achieve results. If you are committed, this technique can be highly effective.