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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.

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Behaviors That Alter Your Genes to Improve Your Health & Performance | Dr. Melissa Ilardo

@ Andrew Huberman

Behaviors That Alter Your Genes to Improve Your Health & Performance | Dr. Melissa Ilardo

05/26/25

Related Takeaways

Dr. Melissa Ilardo

05/26/25

@ Andrew Huberman

Breath-hold training activates the dive reflex, significantly improving oxygen availability by altering spleen size and function.

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.

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.

Dr. Melissa Ilardo

05/26/25

@ Andrew Huberman

The heart rate of divers slows significantly during dives, with some individuals experiencing drops of over 40 beats per minute in under 15 seconds, indicating a remarkable training adaptation.

Dr. Melissa Ilardo

05/26/25

@ Andrew Huberman

Research indicates that the dive reflex is an evolutionary adaptation present in many mammals, suggesting a shared ancestral trait that enhances survival in aquatic environments.

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.

Dr. Melissa Ilardo

05/26/25

@ Andrew Huberman

Pregnant women divers may have a genetic adaptation that lowers their diastolic blood pressure while diving, potentially protecting them from hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.

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.

Dr. Melissa Ilardo

05/26/25

@ Andrew Huberman

The dive reflex, which slows heart rate and constricts blood vessels, is triggered by facial immersion in cold water, mimicking the physiological responses seen in diving.