How Nitrous Oxide AKA Laughing Gas Stops Being So Funny
Most people do not read long explanations of why something is a problem so this is the conclusion:-
- The Inactivation: Nitrous oxide chemically oxidizes the cobalt core of active Vitamin B12 ($B_{12}$), rendering it completely inactive even if overall B12 blood levels appear normal on simple tests.
- The Nerve Shield Breaks Down: Active B12 is essential for maintaining myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. Without functional B12, the myelin layer breaks down (demyelination).
- The Damage: This causes Subacute Combined Degeneration (SCD) of the spinal cord and severe peripheral neuropathy, leading to loss of sensation, difficulty walking, balance issues, and potentially permanent paralysis if untreated.
If you are unsure go to the comments on YouTube which are beneath this video and read those. You might want to get yourself a box of tissues and do this in private if you are easily upset. A screenshot of a couple of them.
A nurse at the QE in Birmingham told me that every shift someone would come in with a serious medical issue caused by Nitrous Oxide gas – this is not a harmless high when taken regularly in large quantities.
