Did you know that the average person takes in about 23,000 breaths a day? That’s a lot of air. And each one of those breaths is processed by our amazing respiratory system. This system is responsible for taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide. It does so in a very intricate way. What’s more surprising is that people don’t know how this system works. Many people buy shatter online in Canada, but they don’t know how to consume it right for a better set of lungs. In fact, they don’t know how to take care of them right. Well, you don’t have to be that kind of person. So read on. You’re about to reveal some fun facts about our respiratory system that you might not have known.
Your Nose Is a Great Filter and Humidifier
Did you know that your nose is actually a great filter and humidifier? That’s right. The hair in your nose filters out dust and other particles from the air. And the mucus in your nose traps these particles, so they don’t enter your lungs. Additionally, this mucus also moistens and warms the air before it enters your lungs. This is important because dry, cold air can irritate your lungs and make it difficult to breathe.
A Certain Amount of Air Never Leaves Your Lungs
Not only does your nose filter and humidify the air, but a certain amount of air never leaves your lungs. In fact, about 10% of the air you breathe in remains in your lungs. This is because the alveoli (air sacs) in your lungs are very efficient at exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide. So even though a small amount of air remains in your lungs, they can still exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide effectively.
You Can Live Without One of Your Lungs
Did you know that you can actually live without one of your lungs? That’s right. People with a lung removed (a procedure called a pneumonectomy) can still live relatively everyday lives. In fact, many people who have had a pneumonectomy report that they don’t even notice a difference in their daily lives. This is because the remaining lung can compensate for the loss of the other lung. So even though it might seem like you need two lungs to survive, you actually only need one.
Your Lungs Are Home to Millions of Bacteria
Did you know that your lungs are home to millions of bacteria? That’s right. In fact, it’s estimated that there are more than 10 million bacteria in the average person’s lungs. However, most of these bacteria are actually harmless. In fact, many of them are actually beneficial. For example, some bacteria help break down food in the lungs and produce vitamins that the body needs. So what’s the take-home message? The respiratory system is fascinating and complex and does much more than we give it credit for. So the next time you take a breath, remember all the fantastic things your lungs are doing to keep you alive and healthy. And if you’re ever curious about how this system works, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or another healthcare professional. They’ll be more than happy to explain it to you.