Myth number 1: Nose plasters help you breathe better during sport.
Prof Dr Wagner: This is not a myth. Nasal plasters help because good nasal breathing depends on three factors: the nasal septum, the turbinates and the nostrils. Nose plasters spread the nostrils open and thus ensure better airflow. Although this does not improve performance, it does allow you to breathe through your nose for longer - which is generally more comfortable than having to open your mouth to breathe.
Myth number 2: Nose plugs with essential oils help just before the race so that you can breathe more freely during the race.
Prof Dr Wagner: This is wrong. Essential oils have a cooling effect and you feel a better airflow, but they do not decongest the mucous membrane. Classic cold spray does.
Myth number 3: Nasal rinsing before the race helps to open the nose.
Prof Dr Wagner: Nasal rinsing only makes sense if you have crusts or bumps (also known as boogers) in your nose. This rinses the nose temporarily and the same applies as for point 1: the air can flow better through the nose.
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Stefan Frey
Editor
