TAKE A DEEP BREATH #121 Dr Dave Smith CO2 Expert: The Science to Preventing & Reversing Brain Damage
Aug 3, 2025
Dr. David Smith, a physician and CO2 researcher, dives into his revolutionary work on preventing brain injuries with the Q-Collar and CO2 rebreather technology. He discusses the fascinating 'SLOSH Theory' and how CO2 affects brain blood flow. Listeners will be captivated by tales of survival on Mount Everest, the secret powers of yawning, and the surprising role of CO2 in cognition and sleep quality. Dr. Smith even shares a remarkable case of reviving a clinically brain-dead patient using CO2 therapy. A thought-provoking exploration of an often-overlooked gas!
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Sinus Dead Space Is Small But Potent
- Human sinus dead space totals roughly 30–55 mL — small but physiologically meaningful.
- Even small dead‑space CO2 rebreathing (1%) produces measurable intracranial and clinical effects.
Salivation And Burping Observed At Altitude
- At altitude Dr David Smith noticed excessive salivation and burping, which he links to bicarbonate→CO2 generation.
- He suggests burping may be an adaptive way to raise local CO2 at high altitude.
A Nasal‑Cycle Theory For SIDS
- Dr David Smith links SIDS risk to infant nasal cycle, nasal obstruction, mouth‑opening, and drops in CO2.
- He proposes devices (patented pacifier) to preserve nasal CO2 and reduce SIDS risk during the first year.