PHYSICAL WELLNESS

your gas exchange stations

THE ALVEOLI

Alveoli are like tiny air-filled rooms at the end of your lung corridors. Each alveolus is a delicate sac where oxygen moves into your blood and carbon dioxide moves out, making every breath count.

  • Exchange oxygen from inhaled air with carbon dioxide in the blood

  • Maintain efficient gas transfer to support metabolism and energy

  • Help regulate blood pH by controlling carbon dioxide levels

  • Work in large numbers to maximize surface area for oxygen absorption

  • Play a key role in overall respiratory efficiency

ALVEOLI BASICS

Common Terms + Simple Definitions

Here’s a mini glossary for alveoli related words you’ll see throughout the site:

Alveolus (singular) - Tiny air sac in the lungs where gas exchange occurs

Alveoli (plural) - The clusters of air sacs that make up the gas exchange surface of the lungs

Pulmonary Capillaries - Small blood vessels that surround alveoli for oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange

Surfactant - A substance that keeps alveoli from collapsing and allows smooth expansion

Gas Exchange - The process of oxygen entering the blood and carbon dioxide leaving

WHAT ALVEROLI WORK WITH

THE ALVEROLI + OTHER SYSTEMS

  1. Bronchioles → Deliver air directly to alveoli

  2. Pulmonary Capillaries → Tiny blood vessels surrounding alveoli for gas exchange

  3. Lungs → Provide structure and support for alveoli

  4. Diaphragm & Chest Muscles → Pump air in and out of the alveoli

  5. Circulatory System → Carries oxygen-rich blood to the body and returns carbon dioxide to the alveoli

  6. Nervous System → Regulates breathing to ensure proper oxygen and carbon dioxide balance

HealthY ALVEROLI…

Healthy alveoli ensure efficient oxygen delivery to your body and removal of carbon dioxide. Protecting your lungs from pollutants, smoking, and infections, along with regular deep breathing, helps maintain these vital gas exchange stations.