Take a deep breath, relax and let the process take effect. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised room or chamber. Traditionally, HBOT has been used to treat conditions such as decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, and chronic wounds.
In recent years, in part due to increased use by celebrities and high-profile athletes, the therapy has gained attention for its potential benefits in weight loss. Studies suggest that HBOT has an impact on metabolic function, fat loss, and overall health, offering a promising supplement to traditional weight loss strategies.
During an HBOT session, patients breathe oxygen at higher-than-normal pressures. This allows oxygen to dissolve into the bloodstream, plasma, and tissues at a higher rate, promoting enhanced cellular function and metabolism. The increased oxygen levels stimulate the body’s natural healing processes and can lead to reduced inflammation, improved circulation, and accelerated tissue repair.
For weight loss, the idea is that HBOT helps increase the rate of fat oxidation (the breakdown of fat cells) and improve the overall metabolic rate.
“Many great traditions related to breathing techniques have existed for many years. For example, ‘Senobi’, a Japanese breathing exercise, or ‘Kapalabhati’, a forceful rhythmic breathing technique from India that can help increase metabolism and burn calories, and ‘Diaphragmatic Breathing’ made popular in the West. Now imagine that breathing (exercise) done in an oxygen-enriched environment, the benefits will be multiplied,” said Sayaka Misumi, the head of Japanese Healing and a constant advocate for better health through weight loss.
Enter the growing body of scientific evidence, although most of the research on HBOT focuses on its use in treating medical conditions, more studies have investigated its potential role in weight loss. One study published in the Journal of Obesity in 2011 looked at the effects of HBOT on obese rats. The results suggested that the treatment increased the rats’ metabolic rate, leading to a reduction in fat tissue. Another study in 2012 found that HBOT helped improve fat oxidation in athletes, which might indicate its potential role in weight management.
One randomised trial conducted in 2014 looked at 35 overweight and obese participants who underwent HBOT three times a week for several weeks. The researchers found that patients who received HBOT experienced a greater reduction in body fat percentage compared to those who did not undergo the treatment. Researchers hypothesise that the increased oxygen levels may enhance the body’s ability to burn fat for energy, rather than relying on carbohydrate stores.
Two researchers from the University of New South Wales stated that a majority of weight loss occurs via breathing and breathed out as carbon dioxide. Their paper published in the Christmas issue of The BMJ explained the formula for those interested in the equation. They found that when 10 kg of fat was oxidised, 8.4 kg was converted and excreted as carbon dioxide (CO2) via the lungs, and 1.6 kg became water (H20). For 10 kg of human fat to be oxidised, the researchers calculated that 29 kg of oxygen must be inhaled. Oxidation then produces a total of 28 kg of CO2 and 11 kg of H20.
“We have known for some time that certain breathing exercises can help manage hunger and cravings. Now we have a considerable amount of scientific evidence to support the process. It is this convergence that allows HBOT to play a role in weight loss for those looking for an increased impact with the time that they have in their daily routine,” concluded Sayaka who has been a strong proponent of improved health through scientific methods.
HBOT has been seen to reduce inflammation, a factor often linked to obesity. Inflammation can cause hormonal imbalances, leading to insulin resistance and fat storage. By promoting a reduction in inflammation, HBOT might improve metabolic health, making it easier for the body to maintain a healthy weight.
Celebrities have long been known to experiment with alternative treatments, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy is no exception. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Rihanna have reportedly used HBOT as part of their beauty and wellness regimens. While their use of HBOT may not specifically focus on weight loss, it highlights the therapy’s popularity in the celebrity world for its purported benefits in healing, recovery, and even skin rejuvenation.
Kim Kardashian, for example, has posted on social media about her experiences in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, showcasing its role in her post-workout recovery routine. While her use of the treatment may not directly target weight loss, her endorsement has helped bring more attention to HBOT as a potential holistic health tool.
While HBOT shows promise for aiding in weight loss, it should not be considered a standalone solution. Rather, it may serve as a supplement to a balanced diet and regular exercise. For those looking for ways to enhance their metabolism and promote fat loss, HBOT might be an interesting treatment to explore, especially with increasing celebrity endorsement and scientific evidence coming to light.
If you are curious about how the Japanese Healing team can get you started on your journey of feeling better, visit www.japanese-healing.com for more information. To book a session at their outlet in Plaza Damas 3 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, contact +6012 656 1388 or write to japanese.healing.kl@gmail.com.
If you are considering HBOT for weight loss and obesity-related issues, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss potential benefits and risks based on your health status. 
