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From chronic illness to peak athletic performance – oxygen is key to health and performance.
From chronic illness to peak athletic performance – oxygen is key to health and performance. But how does the body use oxygen, and what role do training and methods such as oxyvenation play? The central factor: VO2max and the health of the mitochondria.
VO2max – what it reveals about our body
What is VO2max?
VO₂max (maximal oxygen uptake) is a measure of the maximum amount of oxygen the body can take up, transport and use during intense physical activity. It is usually expressed in milliliters of oxygen per minute per kilogram of body weight (ml/min/kg).
Significance of VO₂max
VO₂max is a central indicator of cardiorespiratory fitness and aerobic capacity. It provides information about the efficiency of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems and of the muscles in producing energy.
Factors that influence VO₂max
Cardiovascular system:
The pumping capacity of the heart (cardiac output) influences how much oxygen can be transported to the muscles.
Lung function:
The ability of the lungs to transfer oxygen from the air into the blood.
Blood:
The oxygen content of the blood and the capacity of the red blood cells to transport oxygen (e.g. hemoglobin level).
Muscles:
The ability of muscle cells to use oxygen for energy production in the mitochondria.
Genetics:
About 50% of VO₂max is genetically determined.
Training status:
Regular endurance training can significantly increase VO₂max.
How is VO₂max measured?
Direct measurement:
In a laboratory, VO₂max is measured on an ergometer (e.g. treadmill or bicycle) under gradually increasing load. The oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations in the breath are analyzed.
Indirect tests:
Submaximal exercise tests (e.g. the Cooper test or step test) can provide an estimate of VO₂max.
Why is VO₂max important?
Athletic performance: VO₂max is particularly important in endurance sports such as running, cycling or swimming.
Health: A higher VO₂max is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases.
Aging: VO₂max declines with age, but regular training can slow this decline.
Conclusion
VO₂max is a decisive parameter for assessing endurance capacity and general fitness. It can be improved through targeted training, especially aerobic endurance training (e.g. interval training). A higher VO₂max value means that the body can use oxygen more efficiently for energy production.
VO2max, maximal oxygen uptake, is a scientifically established value that provides information about the efficiency of our cardiovascular system. Put simply, VO2max describes how much oxygen our body can take up and use in one minute – a measure of our fitness.
Why is VO2max so important?
Athletic performance: A high VO2max value is essential for athletes, as it forms the basis for endurance and performance. It shows how well the heart, lungs and muscles work together.
Indicator of health: Studies have shown that a higher VO2max value is associated with a longer life expectancy and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
Limiting factors: Many people, especially older people or the chronically ill, have a lower VO2max, which indicates limited oxygen utilization and lower mitochondrial activity.
Mitochondria are often referred to as the "power plants" of the cell because they are responsible for producing energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). These organelles play a central role in cell metabolism and are involved in numerous vital processes.
What are mitochondria, simply explained?
Mitochondria are often referred to as the "power plants" of the cell because they are responsible for producing energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). These organelles play a central role in cell metabolism and are involved in numerous vital processes. Here are some important facts about mitochondria:
Main functions of mitochondria:
Energy production:
ATP is generated through the process of oxidative phosphorylation in the inner membrane of the mitochondria.
The energy comes from the breakdown of nutrients such as glucose and fatty acids in processes known as the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) and the respiratory chain.
Regulation of cell metabolism:
Mitochondria are involved in regulating metabolic pathways such as fatty acid oxidation and gluconeogenesis.
Calcium storage:
They help regulate calcium levels in the cell, which is important for cell communication and muscle contraction.
Apoptosis (programmed cell death):
Mitochondria play a decisive role in initiating apoptosis, a process that is important for maintaining tissue homeostasis.
Heat production:
In brown adipose tissue, mitochondria can produce heat instead of ATP, which is essential for thermogenesis.
Special features of mitochondria:
Double membrane:
They have an outer and an inner membrane. The inner membrane is heavily folded (cristae), which increases the surface area for energy production.
Their own DNA:
Mitochondria have their own circular DNA (mtDNA), which points to their descent from formerly free-living bacteria (endosymbiotic theory).
Reproduction:
They can multiply by division independently of cell division.
Mitochondria are therefore far more than mere "power plants" – they are vital multifunctional organelles that control and coordinate numerous processes in the cell.
Mitochondria are the "power plants" of our cells. They convert oxygen and nutrients into the energy our body needs for all its functions. Inefficient mitochondrial function can have a negative effect on VO2max, because without active mitochondria the body cannot use oxygen effectively.
In athletes: A high number of mitochondria and their healthy function are crucial for peak performance.
In chronic diseases: Diseases such as diabetes, heart failure or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) are often associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. This leads to reduced energy and limited oxygen utilization.
Oxyvenation: a method of complementary medicine
How does oxyvenation work?
Oxyvenation therapy (oxyvenation for short, intravenous oxygen therapy after Dr. Regelsberger) is a medical treatment method in which medically pure oxygen is administered intravenously in very small amounts. This therapy is a method of complementary medicine.
Aim and concept of oxyvenation
In this method, oxygen is introduced into the body intravenously. In the literature on the method, this is described in connection with the body's own substances such as prostaglandins.
The method focuses on the oxygen supply to the tissues.
It is also described in complementary medicine in connection with the immune system and with inflammatory processes.
What it is about:
Prostaglandins and blood vessels:
Prostaglandins are the body's own messenger substances with vasodilating properties. In connection with the administration of oxygen, their role in the blood flow of small vessels (microcirculation) is discussed.
Inflammatory processes:
In complementary medicine, the method is described in connection with inflammatory processes.
Immune system:
In naturopathy, oxyvenation is described in connection with the immune system.
Oxidative stress:
It is discussed to what extent the controlled supply of oxygen is related to the body's antioxidant protective mechanisms.
Allergies and skin conditions:
In complementary medicine, the method is also mentioned in connection with allergic diseases and skin problems such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis.
Areas of use in complementary medicine
In complementary medicine, oxyvenation is used, among other things, in connection with the following conditions. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment:
Circulatory disorders (e.g. peripheral arterial disease, PAD)
Chronic inflammatory diseases (e.g. rheumatism, Crohn's disease)
Allergies (e.g. hay fever, bronchial asthma)
Skin conditions (e.g. atopic dermatitis, psoriasis)
Chronic fatigue syndrome (fatigue)
Pain (e.g. migraine, fibromyalgia)
Course of the therapy
The patient lies comfortably, and pure oxygen is slowly administered through a cannula in an arm vein.
The dose is low and is increased individually, usually 10–20 ml of oxygen per session.
A treatment takes about 20–30 minutes and is usually carried out in several sessions over several weeks.
Risks and side effects
Even when carried out properly, side effects can occur in rare cases:
Temporary tiredness or exhaustion after the treatment.
Local irritation at the puncture site.
If carried out improperly, embolic complications could occur, which is why the therapy should only be performed by experienced physicians.
Scientific discussion
Oxyvenation is not fully recognized by conventional medicine, as larger studies on its effectiveness are lacking. There are experience reports and smaller studies, particularly on chronic inflammatory diseases and circulatory disorders; their significance is limited.
Both athletes and people with chronic illnesses are interested in oxyvenation. In this method, medical oxygen is administered intravenously in small amounts.
How does oxyvenation work?
Oxygen supply: The oxygen is administered slowly and intravenously in small amounts.
Inflammatory processes: In complementary medicine, the method is described in connection with inflammatory processes.
Microcirculation: The blood flow of the smallest vessels (capillaries) is a central topic of the method.
Mitochondria: Another topic is the question of how oxygen availability and the energy production of the mitochondria are connected.
Who is interested in the method: athletes and the chronically ill
Athletes: Athletes often ask about oxyvenation in connection with endurance training and competition preparation. Training remains the basis for VO2max.
People with CFS: People with chronic fatigue syndrome often ask about the method in connection with a lack of energy in everyday life. The diagnosis and treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome belong in the hands of a physician.
Combining training and therapy
VO2max can be influenced above all through targeted training. Some people additionally use methods such as oxyvenation.
Training approaches for VO2max
Interval training (HIIT):
High-intensity intervals challenge the mitochondria and the cardiovascular system.
Example: 1 minute of sprinting, followed by 2 minutes of recovery.
Continuous endurance training:
Longer training sessions at moderate intensity promote the development of new mitochondria.
Complementary measures:
Strength training and yoga can support flexibility and recovery.
Nutrition for the mitochondria
In naturopathy, a diet rich in antioxidants (e.g. berries, green vegetables), healthy fats (e.g. omega-3) and coenzyme Q10 is described in connection with the mitochondria.
Conclusion: oxygen, VO2max and mitochondria
VO2max is more than just a fitness measure – it shows how efficiently our body functions. Mitochondria are the key to converting oxygen into energy. Oxyvenation is a method of complementary medicine that deals with oxygen supply and is of interest to both athletes and the chronically ill. A healthy lifestyle and regular training remain the foundation of physical performance.
For further information, talk to your physician or visit specialized clinics that offer oxyvenation.
Professionally responsible: Yesha Karmeli, naturopathic practitioner (Heilpraktiker), Natura Heilpraxis Berlin. This text provides general information and does not replace individual advice.
