The secret of immortality, Hyperbaric oxygenation could be the key
Hyperbaric oxygenation has been used for decades to treat various conditions, such as decompression sickness, serious infections, non-healing wounds, and carbon monoxide poisoning. However, recent studies have revealed that this therapy also has beneficial effects on cellular aging, tissue regeneration and the prevention of chronic diseases.
How does hyperbaric oxygenation work?
Hyperbaric oxygenation is based on the principle that increasing air pressure increases the amount of oxygen that can dissolve in the blood. In this way, oxygen reaches all the cells in the body, even those that are damaged or hypoxic (lack of oxygen).
Oxygen is essential for life, as it participates in numerous metabolic processes, such as energy production, protein synthesis or the elimination of toxins. In addition, oxygen has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties, which help fight infections, inflammation and oxidative stress, which are factors that contribute to aging and the development of diseases.
Hyperbaric oxygenation is performed in a sealed chamber, where the patient breathes 100% oxygen through a mask or helmet. The pressure inside the chamber is usually between 2 and 3 times greater than atmospheric pressure, which is equivalent to being at a depth of between 10 and 30 meters underwater. The duration of each session varies depending on the medical indication, but usually ranges between 60 and 90 minutes. The number of sessions also depends on each case, but can range from a few to several dozen.
What benefits does hyperbaric oxygenation have on aging?
One of the main findings of research on hyperbaric oxygenation is that this therapy can reverse the aging of telomeres, which are the structures that protect the ends of chromosomes. Telomeres shorten each time cells divide, limiting the number of times they can divide. When telomeres become too short, cells enter a state of senescence or death, which is associated with aging and the onset of disease.
A study conducted by Israeli researchers in 2020 showed that hyperbaric oxygenation can lengthen telomeres by up to 38%, which is equivalent to reversing the biological clock by about 25 years. In addition, the therapy also reduced levels of cellular senescence by up to 37%, implying an improvement in cell function and quality. These results were obtained after subjecting a group of healthy volunteers to 60 sessions of hyperbaric oxygenation for 3 months.
Another study by American researchers in 2018 showed that hyperbaric oxygenation can improve cognitive function and memory in older people with mild cognitive impairment, which is a condition that precedes Alzheimer's. Study participants received 40 sessions of hyperbaric oxygenation over 2 months and showed a significant improvement in their mental abilities, as well as an increase in blood flow and brain volume in regions affected by aging.
What testimonials are there about hyperbaric oxygenation?
Hyperbaric oxygenation has been used by many people who have experienced its benefits in different areas. Some of the most notable testimonies are the following:
Tom Cruise, the famous Hollywood actor, is a big proponent of hyperbaric oxygenation and uses it regularly to stay young and healthy. According to him, the therapy helps him recover from stress, improve his physical and mental performance, and prevent aging. In addition, he has donated several hyperbaric chambers to hospitals and rehabilitation centers so that other people can access this treatment.
Michael Phelps, the most successful swimmer in history, is also an adept at hyperbaric oxygenation and uses it as part of his training and recovery routine. Thanks to the therapy, Phelps manages to increase his resistance, speed and lung capacity, as well as reduce the risk of injuries and accelerate their healing. Phelps has claimed that hyperbaric oxygenation has helped him achieve records and Olympic medals.
Elizabeth Taylor, the iconic film actress, turned to hyperbaric oxygenation to treat her severe alcohol and drug addiction. Her therapy allowed him to detoxify her body, relieve her chronic pain, and improve her mood. Taylor claimed that hyperbaric oxygenation saved her life and gave her hope.
Stephen Hawking, the brilliant physicist and cosmologist, underwent hyperbaric oxygenation to combat his degenerative disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The therapy provided him with greater well-being, greater mental clarity and greater longevity. Hawking attributed part of his scientific and personal success to hyperbaric oxygenation.
What conclusions can be drawn about hyperbaric oxygenation?
Hyperbaric oxygenation is a therapy that offers multiple benefits for people's health and well-being, both physically and mentally. Its application can improve the quality of life of people suffering from various diseases, as well as prevent or delay aging and its consequences. In addition, hyperbaric oxygenation can enhance the capabilities and performance of people who seek a higher level of excellence in their activities.
However, hyperbaric oxygenation is not a panacea or a source of immortality. The therapy has its limitations, its risks and its contraindications, and must be performed under medical supervision and with professional judgment. Likewise, hyperbaric oxygenation does not replace other healthy habits, such as a balanced diet, adequate hydration, regular physical activity and sufficient rest.
Hyperbaric oxygenation is, ultimately, one more tool to improve our health and happiness, but not the only nor the definitive one. The key is to use it wisely, with knowledge and with respect, and to combine it with other measures that help us live better and longer.
