Fact 6: Reduced Immune Function
The body’s immune system serves as its defense brigade, ensuring we remain healthy amidst potential threats. Surprisingly, the way we breathe can influence this system, with mouth breathing acting as a potential dampener.
The nose, apart from aiding in breathing, acts as a formidable defense fortress. It’s lined with fine hair and mucus, trapping potential pathogens and ensuring they don’t reach the lungs. Additionally, the nasal passage produces nitric oxide, a molecule with potent antimicrobial properties, aiding in neutralizing harmful microbes.
Mouth breathing, bypassing this nasal defense, exposes our lungs and body to a higher risk of infections. The absence of the nasal passage’s protective mechanisms means more direct exposure to potential pathogens. (6)
