You Are What You Breathe: The Biggest Unknown Health Factor with Mike Feldstein

Sleep Impact

CO2 levels significantly impact sleep quality, as Mike Feldstein explains. He shares his experience of living in British Columbia, where high CO2 levels in his home led to poor sleep despite long hours in bed. By improving ventilation, he reduced CO2 levels and improved his sleep quality, highlighting the importance of fresh air for recovery and performance 1.

It's something that air purifiers cannot fix. The only way to deal with CO2 is ventilation.

--- Mike Feldstein

Katie Wells adds that many people feel better outdoors due to lower CO2 levels, which can be a factor in fatigue experienced in enclosed environments like classrooms 1.

   

Practical Solutions

Practical solutions for managing CO2 levels are essential for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. Mike Feldstein carries a CO2 monitor to track air quality and make necessary adjustments, such as opening windows to improve ventilation. He notes that outdoor CO2 levels are typically around 400 ppm, while indoor levels can exceed 1000 ppm, leading to brain fog and fatigue 2.

I carry the CO2 sensor with me all the time. I usually keep it in my bag, keep it in my car, and I now have a fairly calibrated biosensor.

--- Mike Feldstein

Katie Wells mentions that understanding CO2 levels has led her to make changes in her sauna to reduce fatigue, emphasizing the importance of awareness and proactive measures 2.

   

Productivity

High CO2 levels can negatively affect productivity and mental performance. Mike Feldstein highlights that many buildings, including schools and offices, lack adequate ventilation, causing CO2 levels to remain high and impact occupants' well-being. He shares that CO2 levels in cars can quickly rise, leading to fatigue and discomfort, and suggests simple solutions like cracking a sunroof to improve air quality 3.

I've seen the CO2 in cars. When I keep this in a car and you put the recirculate button on, I've seen it jump to 3500 plus in minutes.

--- Mike Feldstein

Katie Wells adds that opening windows in cars not only reduces CO2 but also allows more beneficial light into the vehicle, enhancing overall wellness 3.