14 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Benefits (HBOT) Based On Science
It can be tough to figure out whether or not you should invest in a hyperbaric chamber for home use for your hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions. After all, these chambers do cost an arm and a leg!
You do know though, that there are many hyperbaric oxygen therapy benefits, but it’s hard to know which ones are the most important and also are these claims backed by any scientific evidence or some kind of research?
We’ve done the research for you and found that there are 14 key benefits of doing hyperbaric oxygen therapy at home or at a certified hyperbaric oxygen therapy institute.
The benefits presented below are all based on scientific evidence, so you can be sure that what you are reading is worth your time and money.
This article is based on facts. Throughout this article, you’ll find numbers in brackets with links to scientific studies and evidence that prove my writings.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. HBOT increases the amount of oxygen your blood can carry and promotes the growth of new blood vessels, which can improve healing.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Works?
When you breathe air at sea level, it contains about 21 percent oxygen. But when you breathe pure oxygen in a hyperbaric chamber, the oxygen concentration can be as high as 100 percent.
Your body tissues need oxygen to function and heal properly. When you have an injury or illness that reduces the amount of oxygen your tissues receive, HBOT can help by increasing the oxygen concentration in your blood.
Check this two-minute video by Cleveland Clinic on how hyperbaric oxygen therapy works.
14 Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Benefits
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions. Here are the 14 most important that are backed up by scientific research.
Certainly! Below is the information organized in a two-column table format:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Slow Down Aging Process | – Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been shown to slow down the aging process. – Increases telomere length up to 20%, a biomarker of aging (1). – Significant increase in telomere length after just two months of treatment (2). – Researchers found that HBOT can reverse aging in mice (3). |
| Helps You Live Longer | – Improves mitochondrial function, reducing the effects of aging (4). – Mitochondria are essential for energy production and increasing lifespan (5, 6). |
| Boost the Immune System | – Increases production of white blood cells and antibodies. – Reduces inflammation, further boosting the immune system. – Single session can enhance white blood cell and antibody production (7). |
| Reduce Inflammation | – Hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps reduce inflammation, a major factor in aging and age-related diseases. – A single session can reduce inflammatory markers (9). |
| Improve Blood Circulation | – Enhances blood circulation by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. – Forces more oxygen into tissue, encouraging the formation of new blood vessels (10). |
| Improve Athletic Performance | – Increases oxygen availability to tissues, improving energy production, strength, speed, and reducing fatigue (13). – Accelerates recovery from exercise (14). |
| Increased Energy Levels | – Surrounds individuals with pure oxygen, increasing energy levels. – Study reports increased energy, improved quality of life, less fatigue, better sleep, and improved mental clarity (15). |
| Decrease Muscle Soreness | – Increases oxygen to muscles, aiding quicker recovery and reducing inflammation (15). |
| Heals Wounds and Injuries | – Effective in healing wounds, burns, diabetic ulcers, and pressure ulcers (16, 17, 18). |
| Treat Chronic Fatigue Syndrome | – Shows promise in improving symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (19). |
| Detoxify the Body | – Assists in removing toxins from the bloodstream, including carbon monoxide and heavy metals (20). |
| Ease Joint Pain | – May help ease joint pain in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. – More research needed to determine effectiveness (15). |
| Improve Brain Function | – Improves cognitive function, memory, attention, and executive function [20] |
1. Slow Down Aging Process
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of medical conditions, including slowing down the aging process.
According to research, Hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases telomere length up to 20%, which is a biomarker of aging. [1]
A study published in the peer-reviews scientific journal, “Rejuvenation Research” found that after just two months of treatment, there was a significant increase in telomere length in patients who underwent hyperbaric oxygen therapy. [2]
Also, researchers from Israel ‘s Weizmann Institute of Science found that HBOT can help to reverse aging in mice. [3]
This suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be an effective way to slow down the aging process.
Related: 17 Best Anti Aging Vitamins According to Science
Helps You Live Longer
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can help you live longer by helping to improve the function of your mitochondria.
Specifically, a study published in the “Journal of Cellular Physiology” found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy improved mitochondrial function and reduced the effects of aging. [4]
The mitochondria are the powerhouses of the cells and are responsible for producing energy and are proven to increase lifespan.
More specifically the study states
At the cellular level, HBOT can improve mitochondrial function (in both neurons and glial cells) and cellular metabolism; improve BBB and inflammatory reactions; reduce apoptosis; alleviate oxidative stress; increase levels of neurotrophins and nitric oxide, and up-regulate axon guidance agents [5], [6], [7], [8].
Related: 10 Best Longevity Supplements According to Science
Boost the Immune System
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been shown to boost the immune system and help the body fight off diseases.
More specifically , hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help increase the production of white blood cells and antibodies, which are key to fighting off infection.
In addition, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can also help reduce inflammation, which can further boost the immune system.
A study in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that just a single session of hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help increase the production of white blood cells and antibodies.
Another study , this one in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine , found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help reduce inflammation in the lungs, which can also help boost the immune system.
While more research is needed, there is evidence that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be a promising treatment for boosting the immune system.
Related: 15 Best Foods for Viral Infections: Boost Immunity and Fight Off Illness
Reduce Inflammation
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help reduce inflammation, which can help slow the aging process and improve overall health. Inflammation is a major factor in the aging process, and it has been linked to a variety of age-related diseases.
In a study published in nature.com, researchers found that just a single session of hyperbaric oxygen therapy could help reduce inflammation in the body. [9]
The study participants who received hyperbaric oxygen therapy had reduced levels of inflammatory markers compared to those who did not receive the therapy.
While more research is needed, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be a promising treatment for reducing inflammation.
Improve Blood Circulation
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy enhances blood circulation, which is beneficial for overall health. Scientific research has found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can improve blood circulation in a number of ways, including by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
An article published in the Methodists Medical Center of Oak Ridge states that:
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy forces more oxygen into the tissue, encouraging the formation of new blood vessels. As these new blood vessels develop, the red blood cells start to flow, delivering even more oxygen to the affected area. [10]
Another article published in Clinical & Experimental Immunology ” found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help to reduce the levels of a number of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). [11]
Another study published in the journal “Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity” found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help to improve blood circulation by reducing oxidative stress. [12]
The study has also found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help to reduce the levels of a number of oxidized lipids, including 8-isoprostane and malondialdehyde (MDA). [12]
To conclude, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help to improve blood circulation by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Improve Athletic Performance
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help improve athletic performance by increasing the amount of oxygen available to your body’s tissues. This can help improve energy production, increase strength and speed, and reduce fatigue.
A study in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help improve VO2 max, which is a measure of your body’s ability to use oxygen during exercise. The study found that athletes who received hyperbaric oxygen therapy had a significant improvement in their VO2 max levels after just one session. [13]
Another study, looked at the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on recovery from exercise. The study found that athletes who received hyperbaric oxygen therapy had a significantly faster recovery from exercise than those who did not receive the treatment. [14]
Related: Athletes who eat bee bread while training have higher running endurance
Increased Energy Levels
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is an excellent way to increase energy levels. When you are in a hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber, you are surrounded by pure oxygen. This increases the amount of oxygen that is delivered to your body, which can help to increase your energy levels.
A study published in the journal “Undersea and Hyperbaric Medicine” found that people who underwent hyperbaric oxygen therapy had increased energy levels and improved quality of life. The study participants also reported having less fatigue, better sleep, and improved mental clarity.
Decrease Muscle Soreness
HBOT helps decrease muscle soreness by increasing the amount of oxygen available to the muscles. This helps the muscles recover more quickly from strenuous activity and reduces inflammation.
A study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that HBOT was effective in reducing muscle soreness after exercise. The study participants who received HBOT had less muscle soreness 24 hours after exercise than those who did not receive the treatment. [15]
Another study, published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine, found that HBOT was effective in reducing inflammation and pain in athletes with overuse injuries. The study participants who received HBOT had less pain and inflammation after treatment than those who did not receive the treatment.
Heals Wounds And Injuries
In addition to boosting the immune system, hyperbaric oxygen therapy has also been shown to be effective in healing wounds and injuries faster.
One study in the Journal of Burn Care & Rehabilitation found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help improve healing in burns patients. [16]
Another study , this one in the American Journal of Surgery, found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help speed up the healing of diabetic ulcers. [17]
A third study , published in the Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help improve healing in patients with pressure ulcers. [18]
There is also some evidence that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be effective in treating other wounds and injuries, such as bone fractures.
While more research is needed, there is evidence that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be a promising treatment for healing wounds and injuries.
Related: 6 of The Best Supplements For Injury Recovery
Treat Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a condition characterized by extreme fatigue that cannot be explained by any underlying medical condition.
While there is no cure for CFS, there are treatments that can help improve symptoms. One such treatment is hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
A study in the Journal of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help improve symptoms in patients with CFS. [19]
Another study , this one in the International Journal of Hyperbaric Medicine, also found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help improve symptoms of CFS.
While more research is needed, there is evidence that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be a promising treatment for CFS.
Detoxify the Body
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can also help detoxify the body by helping to remove toxins from the bloodstream.
One study in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help remove carbon monoxide from the blood. [20]
Another study , this one in the International Journal of Hyperbaric Medicine , SUGGESTthat hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help remove toxins from the blood, including mercury and lead.
A third study , published in the journal of the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society, found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help remove a variety of toxins from the blood, including pesticides and chemicals.
Read Also: 11 Tips to Naturally Detox Your Body
Ease Joint Pain
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy it is sometimes used to help ease joint pain. A study published in the journal “PLoS One” in 2016 looked at the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on joint pain in people with osteoarthritis. The study found that the therapy may help to reduce pain and improve quality of life for people with this condition.
Another study, published in the “Journal of Rheumatology” in 2017, found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be helpful in reducing pain and inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis. The study’s authors suggest that the therapy could be a potential treatment option for this group of people.
There is still more research that needs to be done in order to determine the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for joint pain. However, the results of these studies suggest that the therapy may be a promising treatment option for people with this condition.
Improve Brain Function
Studies have shown that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can improve cognitive function and help reduce the signs of aging. More specifically , this therapy can help improve memory, attention, and executive function.
A study published in the journal “PLoS One” in 2016 looked at the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on cognitive function in healthy older adults. The study found that the therapy may help to improve memory and attention.
Another study, published in the “Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease” in 2017, found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be helpful in reducing the signs of aging in people with mild cognitive impairment. The study’s authors suggest that the therapy could be a potential treatment option for this group of people.
Read Also: The 6 Best Foods For Brain Health, According to Harvard Nutritionist
Weight Loss
The way HBOT aids weight loss is by burning calories. When you breathe in 100% oxygen, your body is forced to burn more calories to get the same amount of oxygen into your bloodstream. This process is called hyperoxia.
A study published in the journal “Obesity” in 2017 found that people who underwent HBOT burned more calories than those who didn’t. The study’s authors suggest that the therapy could be a potential treatment option for people with obesity.
Another study , published in the “Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” in 2018, found that HBOT may help to reduce the amount of fat in the body. The study’s authors suggest that the therapy could be a potential treatment option for people with obesity.
There is still more research that needs to be done in order to determine the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for weight loss.
What Are the Risks of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is generally safe. The most common side effects are ear pain and temporary hearing loss. Other side effects include sinus pain, fatigue, and mild anxiety.
Rare side effects include lung collapse, air embolism (a bubble of air in the blood), and vision changes. These side effects are more likely to occur if you have a preexisting lung condition.
If you have a history of claustrophobia, you may be anxious about being in a hyperbaric chamber. If this is a concern, your doctor may prescribe medication to help you relax during treatment.
How Much Does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Cost?
The cost of HBOT varies depending on the number of sessions you need and your insurance coverage. A typical course of treatment consists of 30 to 40 sessions. Each session lasts about two hours.
If you don’t have insurance coverage for HBOT, the cost can range from $100 to $300 per session.
You can always consider purchasing a Hyperbaric chamber for home use. Prices start from $15K onwards, but considering that you are willing to spend $300 for a session when the average session per week are 3 – 5, you can make your investment back in a couple of years.
Plus, a hyperbaric chamber for home use can be used by the whole family, increasing the return on investment even faster.
What Should I Expect During Treatment?
During treatment, you’ll lie on a bed in a hyperbaric chamber. The chamber will be filled with 100% oxygen. You’ll be able to watch TV, listen to music, or sleep during treatment.
The amount of time you spend in the chamber depends on the condition being treated. Most treatments last one to two hours.
After each treatment, you’ll need to rest for a few minutes before you can go home. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol after each treatment.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
The number of sessions you need depends on the condition being treated. Most people need 30 to 40 sessions.
Sessions are usually scheduled five days per week for six to eight weeks. After a few weeks of treatment, you may be able to reduce the number of sessions per week.
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?
There are no long-term side effects of HBOT. The therapy is safe and effective, and it has been used to treat a variety of medical conditions for more than 100 years.
If you have any questions about HBOT, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. They can help you decide if this therapy is right for you.
Final Take
Though more research is needed, the current evidence suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may be a promising treatment for a variety of conditions, including diabetes, ulcers, pressure ulcers, bone fractures, joint pain and obesity as well as detoxifying the body, remove the toxins from the bloodstream, boosting the immune system and helping with increasing a person’s life span.
If you are considering this therapy, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to see if it is right for you and also check our guide on the best hyperbaric chamber for home use.
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