An oxygen cocktail is a drink saturated with oxygen. It is actively used in kindergartens, schools for children’s health, as well as in herbal bars and sanatoriums.
As a rule, an oxygen cocktail consists of three components: water, medicinal oxygen and a foaming agent (usually egg white or licorice root). Instead of water, milk, juice, red fruit drinks, herbal infusions or vitamin supplements can be added to the drink. It is believed that the oxygen in such a drink is absorbed much faster.
Let’s find out from an expert whether the cocktail really has beneficial properties.
What will we tell you about:
Origin story
The oxygen cocktail recipe was developed in the 1960s by Soviet academic Nikolai Sirotinin. The scientist investigated the possibilities of enriching the body with medicinal oxygen in the form of foam.
During clinical trials, oxygen was introduced into the patient’s stomach through a tube. This method helped to improve the condition of patients, eliminated hypoxia and had a positive effect on the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). This method of treatment was called enteral oxygen therapy and was added to the range of medical services available in the Russian Federation.
However, experts abandoned the invasive method in favor of a more comfortable way: oxygen foam, which can be taken internally.
Photo: istockphoto.com/Kipp74
Later, scientists developed special devices for preparing oxygen foam, which was supplied to patients through a tube. Initially, the cocktail was prepared in sanatoriums and hospitals in the USSR.
The benefits of an oxygen cocktail
There is an opinion that this drink improves blood circulation and psychological state, saturates the body with oxygen, increases energy levels and immunity, and reduces stress levels.
endocrinologist, nutritionist at the Be Healthy clinic in Sretenka
“The benefits of maintaining and using oxygen in this way have not been demonstrated.”
A study published in the journal PubMed found that using oxygen cocktails had no effect on a person’s energy levels, relaxation, or stress. Scientists note that healthy people get about 21% of their oxygen from the air they breathe. At this level, the blood is almost completely saturated (99%), meaning there is no need for additional substance.
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Buckwheat with kefir to lose weight: delicious recipes and menu for 7 days. To get enough oxygen, it is best to go for a walk and breathe fresh air. This is definitely better for your health.
Photo: istockphoto.com/ejeune
Among the beneficial properties, the expert highlights only that oxygen cocktails are a source of proteins (since they contain milk) and microelements (an obligatory component is fruit juice). Plus they taste good.
Harm of an oxygen cocktail
High cost of the product. One of the main disadvantages of oxygen cocktails is their high cost compared to conventional drinks. Problems with the gastrointestinal tract. Some people may experience unwanted side effects when taking oxygen cocktails. This applies to those suffering from aerophagia (frequent belching) and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. A high concentration of the substance contributes to the deterioration of your condition, causing heartburn, bloating and allergic reactions. The drink is contraindicated for people who are allergic or intolerant to components, for example, fruits and milk. Drinking an oxygen cocktail in this case can cause allergic reactions in the form of a rash, itching or other serious symptoms. Lots of sugar and high calorie content. People with diabetes should consume the drink with caution due to the content of added ingredients, including sugar or syrup.
Photo: istockphoto.com/Sofia Tiuleneva
Proponents of oxygen cocktails argue that in conditions of deteriorating ecology in large cities, up to 80% of the population suffers from oxygen deficiency. They believe that regular use of the drink can help restore normal oxygen levels in the blood.
However, the attitude of medical specialists towards oxygen cocktails is ambiguous. Some doctors recognize them as useful, others consider them a banal food additive, and others do not recommend consuming them at all, since the drink can bring both benefit and harm.
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