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DM
Dr. Melissa Ilardo
05/26/25
@ Andrew Huberman
Higher than average thyroid hormone levels in the Bajau population correlate with larger spleens and increased red blood cell production, which may enhance their diving capabilities.
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Behaviors That Alter Your Genes to Improve Your Health & Performance | Dr. Melissa Ilardo
@ Andrew Huberman
05/26/25
Related Takeaways
DM
Dr. Melissa Ilardo
05/26/25
@ Andrew Huberman
The Bajau have larger spleens compared to nearby populations that do not dive, which likely enhances their ability to hold their breath and increases oxygen availability during dives.
DM
Dr. Melissa Ilardo
05/26/25
@ Andrew Huberman
The Bajau people have adapted genetically to free diving, showcasing remarkable physiological traits that enhance their diving capabilities.
DM
Dr. Melissa Ilardo
05/26/25
@ Andrew Huberman
The Bajau people, known for their exceptional breath-hold diving abilities, have adapted physiologically to their lifestyle at sea, showcasing how behavior can shape human biology.
DM
Dr. Melissa Ilardo
05/26/25
@ Andrew Huberman
The Bajau's diving skills may influence mate selection, as prowess in diving is associated with resource acquisition and reproductive success.
DM
Dr. Melissa Ilardo
05/26/25
@ Andrew Huberman
The ability to dive effectively is crucial for survival in the Bajau community, as those who do not master this skill may not survive long enough to reproduce.
DM
Dr. Melissa Ilardo
05/26/25
@ Andrew Huberman
The ability to dive and hold breath has led to physiological adaptations in divers, such as larger spleens and improved oxygen utilization, which may also influence their cardiovascular health.
DM
Dr. Melissa Ilardo
05/26/25
@ Andrew Huberman
The record for breath-holding among the Bajau is reportedly around 13 minutes, demonstrating their extraordinary adaptation to underwater diving, as they are known as sea nomads who have adapted to free diving, allowing them to hold their breath for extended periods while hunting underwater.
DM
Dr. Melissa Ilardo
05/26/25
@ Andrew Huberman
Cultural knowledge and practices related to diving are passed down through generations in the Bajau community, emphasizing the importance of traditional skills for survival and reproduction.
DM
Dr. Melissa Ilardo
05/26/25
@ Andrew Huberman
The mammalian dive reflex can dramatically alter the physiology of your spleen, allowing significant increases in red blood cell count and oxygen availability to your brain and body.