The Next Frontier of Human Physiology: Carbon Monoxide as a Performance Enhancer?

When we think of carbon monoxide (CO), the first thing that comes to mind is a silent killer—the toxic gas emitted from car exhausts, known for its lethal effects in poorly ventilated spaces. But what if I told you that CO, much like nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), is emerging as a key player in human physiology and performance enhancement?

Dr. Nathan Bryan, one of the world’s foremost experts on nitric oxide and its role in human health, joined us on this week's Crackin’ Backs Podcast to discuss a topic that’s turning the heads of researchers and biohackers alike: the potential of carbon monoxide as a physiological signaling molecule.


From Poison to Performance Enhancer: The Role of Gaseous Transmitters
The concept of using toxic gases in medicine and performance isn’t new.
 

• Nitric oxide is already being administered to premature babies with pulmonary hypertension despite being labeled as a poison.

• Hydrogen sulfide, another well-known toxic gas, has protective effects at low doses and is being researched for its potential therapeutic applications.

• Now, carbon monoxide is gaining attention for its ability to influence mitochondrial function and oxygen delivery in the body.
   

CO, like NO, acts as a gaseous transmitter, binding to cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria and temporarily inhibiting oxygen utilization. This process induces a state known as acute hypoxia, which paradoxically stimulates adaptive mechanisms such as mitochondrial biogenesis and angiogenesis—the formation of new blood vessels. The result? Enhanced endurance, improved energy efficiency, and potential applications for athletic performance.


Intermittent Hypoxia: The Link to High-Altitude Training
For those unfamiliar, intermittent hypoxia refers to short, controlled exposures to low oxygen levels, similar to what occurs in high-altitude training. Athletes have long utilized altitude training to increase their nitric oxide production and red blood cell count, leading to improved oxygen efficiency and ATP production when they return to sea level.

Dr. Bryan explains that CO operates under a similar principle, extending oxygen gradients in tissues and preventing lactic acid buildup. In theory, this could offer benefits similar to altitude training—without the need to live in the mountains for weeks at a time.

But here’s the kicker: dosing and control are critical.


The Double-Edged Sword: The Dangers of Misuse
As promising as this research sounds, Dr. Bryan emphasizes that carbon monoxide is still in its infancy as a therapeutic agent. Misuse or improper dosing could have disastrous consequences.
 

• Carbon monoxide poisoning is lethal. A single misstep in administration could result in hypoxia-induced brain damage or death.

• The lack of detection tools in athletic facilities makes it difficult to control dosing, unlike nitric oxide, which can be monitored with simple blood draws measuring methemoglobin levels.

• The risk-benefit balance isn’t fully understood. While low levels may have protective and performance-enhancing effects, excessive exposure could destroy an entire field of research if misapplied.
   

“We’ve seen it happen before,” Dr. Bryan warns. “People see a headline about CO boosting performance, then they go lock themselves in a garage with a running car, and suddenly the whole field is labeled as dangerous quackery.”

This is why rigorous research and controlled clinical applications are necessary before CO can be considered a viable ergogenic aid.


So, Should Athletes Be Using CO for Performance?
At this stage, NO!!. While the concept is intriguing and the science is evolving, CO as a performance-enhancing agent is still largely uncharted territory. There are simply too many unknowns, including:
 

• Safe and effective dosing protocols

• Reliable detection methods for monitoring CO levels in the body

• Long-term health impacts of chronic low-dose exposure
   

For now, athletes looking to optimize performance should focus on proven methods—and nitric oxide is still king.

Unlike CO, nitric oxide is well-researched, widely available, and has clear benefits for blood flow, oxygen delivery, and mitochondrial function. If performance enhancement is the goal, maximizing nitric oxide production through diet, supplementation, and lifestyle interventions remains the gold standard.


Takeaways: What Healthcare Professionals Need to Know
 

1. Carbon monoxide, like nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide, is emerging as a crucial gaseous transmitter in human physiology.

2. At low doses, CO may enhance mitochondrial efficiency and oxygen delivery, similar to high-altitude training.

3. The risks of improper CO administration far outweigh the potential benefits at this stage of research.

4. Nitric oxide remains the safest and most effective way to enhance athletic performance, improve circulation, and support mitochondrial health.

5. Athletes and clinicians should approach CO research with curiosity—but also extreme caution.

Want to Learn More?
Dr. Nathan Bryan is at the forefront of nitric oxide research, and his work is shaping the future of cardiovascular health, athletic performance, and longevity.

For more insights, check out his website and research at: HERE

And don’t forget to subscribe to the Crackin’ Backs Podcast to stay ahead of the curve on the latest in health, performance, and cutting-edge science.

🔗 Listen & Subscribe:  HERE

Legal Disclaimer for Crackin’ Backs Podcast and Dr. Nathan Bryan

The Crackin’ Backs Podcast and Dr. Nathan Bryan do not endorse, promote, or support the use of carbon monoxide (CO) for performance enhancement in any form. The content discussed in this episode is intended solely for educational and informational purposes.

Our discussion is focused on examining the science behind the initial research, historical context, and mechanisms of CO in the body, with the goal of fostering public awareness and understanding. We are not advocating for its use in any way, nor are we providing medical, legal, or professional advice regarding its application in human performance or health.

Listeners are strongly encouraged to consult qualified medical professionals before considering any health-related interventions. The Crackin’ Backs Podcast and its guests assume no responsibility for how the information presented in this episode is interpreted or applied.

By engaging with this content, you acknowledge that it is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or professional advice.