TAKE A DEEP BREATH #121 Dr Dave Smith CO2 Expert: The Science to Preventing & Reversing Brain Damage
Aug 3, 2025
Dr. David Smith, a physician and CO2 researcher, dives into his revolutionary work on preventing brain injuries with the Q-Collar and CO2 rebreather technology. He discusses the fascinating 'SLOSH Theory' and how CO2 affects brain blood flow. Listeners will be captivated by tales of survival on Mount Everest, the secret powers of yawning, and the surprising role of CO2 in cognition and sleep quality. Dr. Smith even shares a remarkable case of reviving a clinically brain-dead patient using CO2 therapy. A thought-provoking exploration of an often-overlooked gas!
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Brain Slosh Is The Key Injury Mechanism
- Traumatic brain injury largely results from the brain moving inside the skull and 'sloshing' against internal structures.
- Dr David Smith used biomimicry (woodpeckers, ramming animals) to develop devices that reduce that slosh by increasing intracranial volume.
Biomimicry Led To The Q‑Collar
- Dr David Smith studied woodpeckers and other animals to learn natural anti-concussion physiology.
- That research led to the Q-Collar which mimics jugular compression and showed large reductions in animal brain injury.
Raise Intracranial Volume To Prevent Concussion
- Small increases in intracranial volume (compensatory reserve) reduce brain movement and prevent injury.
- Dr David Smith showed jugular compression or mild CO2 elevation fills that reserve and dramatically lowers concussion risk.