What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Breathing at Night
Have you ever woken up feeling exhausted despite clocking in a full eight hours of sleep? If so, you might be experiencing a condition called sleep apnea. This isn’t just about feeling tired; it’s about your body literally stopping breathing multiple times each night, causing severe damage to vital organs and leaving you drained during the day. In this article, we’ll dive deep into what sleep apnea really is, why it’s so dangerous, and explore natural, non-invasive solutions to help reclaim your restful nights.

Understanding Sleep Apnea: The Silent Nighttime Threat

Sleep apnea is a disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Imagine suffocating multiple times in the night at a time when your body should be resting and repairing itself. This lack of oxygen and disrupted sleep prevent your body from healing, leading to damage across your cardiovascular system, brain, and overall health. It’s a “double whammy” — you lose restorative rest and simultaneously inflict harm on your body. There are two main diagnostic thresholds used for sleep apnea:
  • The American Academy of Sleep Medicine defines sleep apnea as having more than five breathing interruptions (events) per hour.
  • The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) considers 15 or more events per hour as the cutoff, often classifying 5-15 events as mild sleep apnea.
Regardless of the number, sleep apnea is a serious health concern, especially because many people live with it undiagnosed or untreated.

Why Sleep Apnea Is More Common and Lethal Than You Think

Contrary to popular belief, sleep apnea doesn’t only affect overweight individuals. In fact, about 10% of the general population has sleep apnea, while around 60% have anatomical features like a narrow airway that could predispose them to it. Many young, fit people also suffer from it, often unaware. Sleep apnea is a life-threatening condition. People over 40 with sleep apnea can face a reduction in life expectancy by 10 to 25 years. It is a gateway disease that increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, diabetes, and even sudden death at night. For example, statistics show that between five and ten people suffocate overnight each day due to sleep apnea, often found "dead in bed.” Additionally, sleep apnea dramatically raises the risk of hospitalization from illnesses like the flu by up to five times, highlighting how it compromises your body’s ability to cope with stressors.

The Conventional Approach: CPAP Machines and Their Limitations

The Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine is the standard medical treatment for sleep apnea. This device delivers a steady stream of air through a mask, keeping your airway open while you sleep. However, CPAP therapy has significant drawbacks:
  • Many people find the CPAP uncomfortable, anxiety-provoking, and difficult to tolerate. Imagine having a plastic leaf blower strapped to your face all night — it’s no wonder compliance rates are low.
  • Studies show that only about 30-40% of people prescribed CPAP machines use them consistently over the long term. The majority end up abandoning the device, often leaving it unused under their bed.
  • Insurance companies monitor CPAP usage closely. Failure to meet usage requirements can result in loss of coverage or higher premiums, adding financial and psychological pressure.
While CPAP is a lifesaving tool for some, many patients seek alternatives that are less invasive and more manageable.

A Personal Journey to a Natural Solution

Dr. Dylan Pis, a medical doctor and researcher, found himself struggling with sleep apnea despite being young and relatively fit. After a sleep study confirmed moderate sleep apnea, he tried CPAP but quickly rejected it due to discomfort. His journey to find a better solution led him deep into the science of sleep apnea and breathing. What he discovered challenged conventional wisdom. Sleep apnea isn’t just about a narrow airway blocking airflow; it’s also about how we breathe. Studies dating back to 1953 showed that hyperventilation — breathing too fast and too deeply — can actually trigger sleep apnea episodes. This creates a vicious cycle of overbreathing followed by cessation of breath, then overbreathing again. This cycle causes negative pressure in the airway that pulls the tongue and throat tissues inward, blocking airflow. So, sleep apnea arises from a combination of anatomical factors and dysfunctional breathing patterns.

Breathing Patterns and Sleep Apnea: The Missing Link

Dr. Pis explains that about 60% of people have anatomical features that might narrow their airways, but only 10% develop sleep apnea. The difference is often in the breathing pattern. Poor breathing habits, especially rapid, shallow breathing, exacerbate airway collapse during sleep. By focusing on improving breathing patterns, Dr. Pis developed natural, non-invasive methods to reduce sleep apnea symptoms without surgery or CPAP machines. His approach includes simple breathing exercises, myofunctional therapy (exercises to strengthen tongue and throat muscles), and lifestyle changes targeting mitochondrial health.

Simple Breathing Exercises That Make a Difference

The first step involves practicing slow, controlled breathing with prolonged exhalations. For example, inhaling slowly to half your normal breath volume, then exhaling as slowly as possible through the nose. Doing this before sleep can reduce the drive to overbreathe at night. This technique helps your body retain more carbon dioxide (CO2), which is crucial because CO2 is the primary chemical signal that regulates breathing. People with sleep apnea often have an abnormal response to CO2, leading their brains to overreact and cause hyperventilation.

Testing Your Breathing: The Relaxed Breath Hold

One practical way to assess your breathing control is the Relaxed Breath Hold Test. Here’s how to do it:
  1. Take a normal breath in through your nose.
  2. Exhale slowly and fully through your nose.
  3. Hold your breath after exhaling, staying relaxed and breathing again at the first sign of air hunger (a slight tug or warm sensation in your chest).
Most people with sleep apnea will hold their breath comfortably for less than 15 seconds. As you improve your breathing, this time can increase dramatically — reaching 30 seconds or more often signifies substantial progress.

Beyond Breathing: Strengthening Your Airway and Optimizing Lifestyle

Breathing exercises alone can improve symptoms by about 40%, but Dr. Pis emphasizes a holistic approach to sleep apnea:

Myofunctional Therapy

This involves targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles of the tongue, lips, and throat. Stronger muscles help keep the airway open naturally during sleep, reducing collapses and interruptions.

Mitochondrial Health and Metabolic Support

Sleep apnea also involves issues with how your body produces and uses CO2, linked to mitochondrial function — the powerhouse of your cells. Improving your nutrition, managing stress, optimizing your circadian rhythm, and supporting your nervous system all play roles in enhancing mitochondrial health and reducing sleep apnea severity.

Common Myths: Why Mouth Tape Isn’t a Cure-All

Mouth tape, which encourages nasal breathing by keeping the mouth closed during sleep, has gained popularity. However, Dr. Pis clarifies that mouth breathing is a symptom, not the root cause, of poor breathing patterns. While mouth tape may help some people with mild sleep apnea, it generally only reduces severity slightly and is not a standalone solution for moderate to severe cases. The focus should be on correcting the underlying breathing dysfunction rather than forcing the mouth closed.

How to Know if You Might Have Sleep Apnea: The STOP-BANG Questionnaire

If you suspect sleep apnea, you can start with a simple screening tool called the STOP-BANG questionnaire, which asks eight yes/no questions:
  • Do you snore loudly (loud enough to be heard through closed doors)?
  • Do you often feel tired, fatigued, or sleepy during the daytime?
  • Has anyone observed you stop breathing during sleep?
  • Do you have or are you being treated for high blood pressure?
  • Is your BMI greater than 35 or are you more than 30 pounds overweight?
  • Are you over 50 years old?
  • Is your neck circumference greater than 40 cm (about 15.7 inches)?
  • Are you male?
A score of three or more indicates moderate risk, and five or above suggests a high likelihood of sleep apnea, warranting a formal sleep study.
Nature or Nurture – How Important Are Genes On Longevity Anyway?
A groundbreaking study recently published in the journal Nature Medicine offers a fascinating deep dive into how much our environment and genetics contribute to our health, aging, and longevity (1). Researchers analyzed a wealth of data from nearly 500,000 participants in the UK Biobank, focusing on three key questions:
  1. Which environmental factors are most predictive of aging and premature death?
  2. How do these factors impact biological aging, disease risks, and common aging biomarkers like cholesterol and inflammation?
  3. How do environmental influences (the exposome) compare to genetic factors (the genome) in determining our risk of mortality and age-related diseases?
The Key Role of Lifestyle and Environmental Factors The study began by looking at 164 lifestyle and environmental factors—everything from smoking and physical activity to sleep patterns, diet, socioeconomic status, and early-life conditions. After thorough testing and replication, 25 factors emerged as consistently linked to early mortality. Interestingly, these factors didn’t just impact the likelihood of dying early—they also influenced proteomic aging, which estimates a person’s biological age. To do this they used a genetic clock, similar to the one that Dr Morgan Levine discussed in my podcast, Your Lifestyle Is Your Medicine, back in Episode 6.  What they found was that if an environmental factor predicted a higher risk of mortality, it was also associated with accelerated aging.  What Are The Key Factors Associated With Aging and Mortality? - Smoking status: and lifetime exposure to smoking, including prenatal exposure. - Physical activity, especially gym attendance - Sleep habits, like the frequency of naps or sleeping fewer than 7 hours or more than 9 hours per night - Mood, including frequent feelings of being "fed up". - Socioeconomic factors, such as income, education, and employment status. - Childhood growth patterns, including body size and height at age 10. - Ethnicity, with differences observed between White, Black, Asian, and mixed populations. How the Environment Affects Disease and Health The study also revealed that environmental and lifestyle factors influence multiple biological systems in consistent patterns. For instance, beneficial exposures like higher socioeconomic status, regular physical activity, stable employment, and healthy sleep habits were associated with healthier biomarkers, such as: - Better cholesterol profiles - Lower inflammation - Improved glucose metabolism - Healthier kidney and liver function - Longer telomeres (which indicate slower cellular aging) - Better vitamin D status On the flip side, harmful exposures like smoking, negative mood states, disrupted sleep, and socioeconomic deprivation consistently led to poorer health markers, including higher inflammation, poor lipid profiles, and accelerated cellular aging. Perhaps most striking was the consistency of these patterns across various biomarkers—whether it was metabolism, inflammation, organ function, or cellular aging. These findings point to the profound impact of environmental and lifestyle factors on our biology, offering clear pathways linking the environment to early mortality and disease. Genes vs. Environment: Who Wins? One of the major revelations from the study was the comparison between genetics and environmental factors in predicting mortality and disease risk. While age and sex were by far the strongest predictors of mortality, yes, men get the short straw here,  both genes and the environment also played substantial roles. - Environmental factors explained 16–19% of the variation in mortality risk, beyond basic demographics (age and sex). -  Genes explained only 2–3% of the variance, Environment vs. Genetics in Age-Related Diseases What I thought was really interesting is that the contributions of genetics and environment varied significantly for different diseases: - Diseases more strongly influenced by the “environment” included lung cancer, chronic liver disease, type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, stroke, heart disease, and chronic kidney disease—all of which are heavily shaped by lifestyle choices like diet, smoking, physical activity, and socioeconomic status - which also suggest they are modifiable.  - By contrast, diseases more strongly influenced by **genetics** included certain cancers (like breast, prostate, and ovarian cancers), Alzheimer’s disease, and macular degeneration—conditions known to have a strong hereditary component. In Dr. Morgan Levine’s genetic clock research, she gives us a fascinating look into how we might measure biological age and the impact of genetics on aging. But even she didn’t think that genes played a huge role in how well we age because it might not be possible to outlive our genetic potential. What this means for me is that even though my genetic expiry date might be less than my sisters, the environment I choose to live in might mean that I have a greater health span, mearing more healthy years of living. To me, this is arguably the goal of investing in my health now.  Not to live a super long life but to live a life that is full of energy, laughter and adventure. Let me know if you want any adjustments or additions!  
  1. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-024-03483-9?utm_source=brevo&utm_campaign=genes_vs_environment&utm_medium=email
Is Life Extension Possible? What Does the Science Say?
Aging is no longer seen as an inevitable decline but as a process influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. While there is still much to uncover, scientific advancements have given us valuable insights into how aging works. Ignoring these discoveries means missing opportunities to enhance both healthspan (the years we live in good health) and lifespan. In a recent podcast, I had the pleasure of discussing this topic with Dr. Matt Kaeberlein, a leading expert in the field of aging biology. Dr. Kaeberlein is a professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine and has devoted his career to studying the biological mechanisms of aging. His work focuses on improving the quality of life for both humans and animals, particularly through the Dog Aging Project.

The Dog Aging Project: What Can Dogs Teach Us About Aging?

One of the most exciting initiatives in aging research is the Dog Aging Project, where Dr. Kaeberlein plays a key role. This large-scale study examines how genetics and environmental factors influence aging in companion dogs. Because dogs share many aspects of human environments, they provide a unique opportunity to study aging in a way that directly translates to human health. Studies suggest that around 70% of human longevity is determined by environmental factors such as lifestyle choices, diet, and activity levels. By understanding how these factors impact aging in dogs, researchers can apply similar principles to human longevity.

Can Supplements Slow Aging?

Rapamycin: A Potential Breakthrough

One of the most promising anti-aging compounds being studied is rapamycin, a drug originally used to prevent organ transplant rejection. Initial studies in laboratory animals have shown that rapamycin can slow aging and extend lifespan. Now, the Dog Aging Project is conducting a clinical trial to see if these benefits extend to dogs.

Dr. Kaeberlein’s Personal Experience with Rapamycin

During our podcast, Dr. Kaeberlein shared his personal experience with rapamycin. He used it to treat a painful shoulder condition and reported significant improvements within weeks. His case highlights rapamycin’s potential in addressing age-related inflammation, a key contributor to many chronic diseases.

The Role of Inflammation in Aging

As we age, chronic inflammation becomes a major factor in health decline. This low-grade, persistent inflammation is linked to conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and cognitive decline. Research suggests that interventions like rapamycin, lifestyle modifications, and dietary adjustments can help reduce this inflammation, potentially improving overall health.

Lifestyle Interventions for Longevity

While supplements like rapamycin hold promise, the foundation of healthy aging remains rooted in lifestyle choices. Key interventions include:
  • A nutrient-rich diet: Prioritizing whole foods, lean proteins, and antioxidants.
  • Regular physical activity: Exercise helps maintain muscle mass, cardiovascular health, and mobility.
  • Quality sleep: Sleep is essential for cellular repair and overall well-being.
By adopting these habits, individuals can positively influence their aging trajectory, regardless of genetic predisposition.

Challenges in Aging Research

Despite its immense potential, aging research faces significant funding challenges. Most healthcare funding is allocated to treating individual diseases rather than addressing aging itself. Shifting focus toward the biology of aging could lead to breakthroughs in preventing multiple age-related diseases at once.

The Future of Aging Research

The future of aging research looks promising, with advancements in AI, epigenetics, and clinical trials opening new possibilities. As we continue to explore ways to modify aging, we may soon reach a point where extending both lifespan and healthspan becomes a reality.

Final Thoughts

We stand at the forefront of a revolution in aging science. By understanding and applying the latest research, we can shift from merely treating age-related diseases to preventing them altogether. Whether through groundbreaking treatments like rapamycin or simple lifestyle adjustments, the potential to live longer, healthier lives is within reach. For a deeper dive into this topic, listen to my full conversation with Dr. Matt Kaeberlein on the podcast. And if you try any of these strategies, let me know how they work for you!  
Understanding Mold Toxicity: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Mold often goes unrecognized, leading to chronic health problems. In this article, I will delve into the symptoms of mold exposure, how to diagnose it, and the available treatment options; understanding mold toxicity is essential for anyone who suspects they may be affected. This is my second article about mold toxicity, as I believe it is a serious health issue that can affect individuals in various ways.  Feel free to have a glance back at the other article and podcast here: Episode 34 - How To Find And Get Rid Of Mold Episode 10 - Mold And Radon Gas Can Be Making You Sick

Common Symptoms of Mold Exposure

I recently interviewed Dr Terri Fox, an MD who specializes in mold. You can listen to the podcast here:  Episode 47 -  How To Heal From Mold Exposure

This is what I learned:

Identifying mold toxicity can be challenging, as symptoms often overlap with other health conditions. Here are five signs that may indicate mold exposure:
  • Fatigue: Persistent tiredness that doesn't improve with rest can be a significant symptom.
  • Brain Fog: Cognitive dysfunction, including difficulty concentrating and memory issues, is commonly reported.
  • Weight Fluctuations: Rapid weight gain or loss without an apparent reason can be linked to mold exposure.
  • Neurological Symptoms: Unusual sensations such as numbness, tingling, weakness, and involuntary muscle movements may occur.
  • Emotional Disturbances: Increased anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts can arise, particularly in children.

Children and Mold Exposure

In children, symptoms may manifest differently. They might experience anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood changes rather than the physical symptoms adults typically report. The neurological impact of mold toxins can lead to conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and tics.

Understanding the Biotoxin Illness

Mold exposure can trigger biotoxin illnesses, including conditions like Lyme disease and other chronic inflammatory responses. If someone has multiple "trash can diagnoses," such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fibromyalgia, or chronic fatigue syndrome, they might be suffering from a biotoxin illness related to mold or Lyme disease.

How to Diagnose Mold Toxicity

Diagnosis of mold toxicity involves thoroughly evaluating symptoms and potential exposure history. Here are some key steps in the diagnostic process:
  • Visual Contrast Study: This online test assesses cognitive function by presenting visual patterns. Those with mold toxicity often struggle to see the patterns.
  • HERE is a link to a free test that gives a positive or negative answer.
  • HERE is a link to a paid-for test that goes into more detail. 
  • Urinary Mycotoxin Test: A urine test can identify the presence of mold toxins in the body, indicating mold exposure.
  • Environmental Testing: Assessing the home environment for mold presence is crucial. This may involve hiring a professional for thorough testing.

Understanding Exposure Types

It's important to differentiate between chronic and acute mold exposure. A urinary test may not specify the duration of exposure but can indicate the presence of toxic molds. For example, while outdoor molds are generally non-pathogenic, indoor molds can produce harmful mycotoxins.

Treatment Strategies for Mold Toxicity

Treatment for mold toxicity typically follows a two-phase approach:

Phase 1: Detoxification

The first phase focuses on detoxifying the body from mold toxins. This may include:
  • Binders: Substances like activated charcoal or bentonite clay help bind mycotoxins in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for their elimination.
  • Glutathione: This antioxidant supports the body's detoxification processes.
  • Supportive Therapies: Infrared saunas and detox baths can facilitate toxin removal through sweating.

Phase 2: Eradication

Once the body is detoxified, the second phase involves targeting any mold colonizing. This often includes:
  • Antifungal Medications: Prescription antifungals are used to eliminate mold present in the system.
  • Biofilm Disruption: Tactics to break down biofilms that protect mold colonies from treatment.

Environmental Considerations

Addressing mold toxicity also involves remediating the living environment. Here are key steps to consider:
  • Identify and Remove Mold Sources: Any wet materials should be removed from the home.
  • Professional Remediation: Hiring experts for mold removal ensures that spores are contained and adequately managed during the process.
  • Regular Cleaning: Frequent cleaning with antifungal agents can help maintain a mold-free environment.

The Role of Nutrition

Diet can play a role in managing mold toxicity. An anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce the overall burden on the body, but Dr Fox felt the remediation above should be done before addressing your diet. Certain foods should be limited, such as:
  • Nuts and berries, which can contain mycotoxins.
  • Processed foods that may exacerbate inflammation.

Healthy Dietary Choices

Focusing on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, can support healing and recovery. Maintaining a balanced diet while managing mold exposure is crucial.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

Mold exposure can lead to emotional disturbances, including anxiety and depression. The neurotoxic effects of mycotoxins can disrupt normal brain function, leading to these mental health challenges. Children are particularly vulnerable, as they may exhibit increased behavioral issues and emotional instability. Identifying and addressing mold exposure is essential for their mental well-being.

Conclusion

Understanding mold toxicity is critical for anyone experiencing unexplained health issues. With proper diagnosis and treatment, individuals can recover from mold exposure and improve their quality of life. If you suspect you have been exposed to mold, consider seeking out healthcare professionals familiar with mold-related illnesses. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; effective treatment options are available. Don't hesitate to reach out for support and guidance. To find out more about the services Dr Terri Fox has, please visit her website here: https://boulderholistic.com/meet-our-team/