Nose breathing versus mouth breathing

 

Nose breathing versus mouth breathing has numerous benefits that can impact our health.  When we are born, nature conditions us to breathe preferentially through the nose. In fact infants are obligate nose breathers.

First, breathing through the nose allows for humidification and filtering of the air we breath and deliver to the lungs. Second, moving air through the nose (2L/minute on each side) is more efficient  and possibly places less stress on the heart.

Studies demonstrated that nasal breathing during exercise results in a lower heart rate and less fatigue than mouth breathing. Good nasal airflow is also important while sleeping and nasal obstruction frequently worsens sleep apnea. The evidence is clear, good nasal breathing is important for your overall health!