The Best Supplements for Freediving:
Boost Your Performance and Recovery
Freediving requires both physical endurance and mental resilience, relying on oxygen efficiency, breath-hold control, and calm focus under pressure. To support these unique needs, certain supplements can be incredibly beneficial for freedivers. From enhancing oxygen transport to reducing oxidative stress and improving recovery, the right supplements can help you dive deeper, recover faster, and feel more balanced.
Here’s a look at the top supplements for freedivers that can help optimize performance and support overall health.
1. Spirulina: The Superfood for Oxygen Efficiency
Spirulina, a blue-green algae packed with essential vitamins and minerals, has become a go-to supplement for athletes and freedivers alike. Known for its high protein content and impressive nutrient profile, spirulina offers iron, B vitamins, and antioxidants, which are critical for both energy and recovery. For freedivers, the iron and chlorophyll content in spirulina can help support red blood cell production and oxygen transport, improving oxygen efficiency during dives.
Benefits of Spirulina for Freedivers:
• Boosts Red Blood Cell Production – Iron in spirulina supports hemoglobin formation, improving oxygen transport.
• Enhances Energy – B vitamins and protein content boost natural energy levels.
• Reduces Muscle Fatigue – Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress caused by physical activity.
How to Take It:
Add a teaspoon of spirulina powder to a smoothie, or take it in capsule form. Look for organic, high-quality spirulina without fillers for the best results.
2. Iron Supplements
Iron plays a critical role in oxygen transport, and for freedivers, having adequate iron levels can be the difference between an extended, smooth dive and struggling to maintain breath-hold. Ancestral Nutrition offers iron supplements derived from liver and other organ meats, which are highly bioavailable and rich in co-factors like vitamin A and copper that aid in iron absorption. This natural source of iron is particularly beneficial for those looking to avoid synthetic supplements while still maintaining optimal iron levels.
Why Iron is Important for Freedivers:
• Supports Oxygen Delivery – Iron is essential for hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
• Improves Energy and Endurance – Adequate iron helps prevent fatigue and supports stamina.
• Boosts Cognitive Focus – Iron is also linked to cognitive health, helping freedivers maintain focus underwater.
My recommendation:
Ancestral Nutrition Grass-Fed Beef Liver – A natural source of highly absorbable iron, along with other key nutrients for freediving. Available at AncestralSupplements.com. You can use my promo code LUCIB15 at checkout to get 15% off!
3. Antioxidants: Combat Oxidative Stress
Antioxidants are essential for freedivers, as they help combat the oxidative stress that comes from breath-holding and depth training. When you hold your breath and build CO2 in your body, free radicals can increase, leading to cellular damage. Antioxidant-rich supplements like vitamin C, vitamin E, and CoQ10 can help protect against this damage, reduce inflammation, and support muscle recovery.
Top Antioxidants for Freedivers:
• Vitamin C – Supports immune function, collagen production for joint health, and fights oxidative stress.
• Vitamin E – Protects cells from oxidative damage and supports skin and tissue health.
• CoQ10 – An essential enzyme for cellular energy production, reducing muscle fatigue and enhancing recovery.
How to Take It:
Consider a daily antioxidant blend that combines these key nutrients, or add specific antioxidants like vitamin C or CoQ10 to your routine. They’re available in capsules or powder, making them easy to incorporate.
Recommended Product:
NOW CoQ10 with Vitamin E – A blend of antioxidants that support cellular health and energy production. Available at NowFoods.com.
4. Sea Moss: A Mineral-Rich Boost for Recovery and Balance
Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, is a mineral powerhouse that provides 92 of the 102 minerals our bodies need. Particularly rich in iodine, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, sea moss supports electrolyte balance and muscle recovery—critical for freedivers facing the physical demands of diving. Additionally, sea moss offers mucilaginous properties that can soothe the digestive tract, a benefit for divers who may experience digestive stress from depth and pressure changes.
Benefits of Sea Moss for Freedivers:
• Supports Muscle Recovery – Magnesium and potassium aid muscle function and recovery after dives.
• Balances Electrolytes – Provides essential minerals to support hydration and prevent cramping.
• Enhances Immunity – Rich in immune-supportive compounds like potassium iodide and selenium.
How to Take It:
Sea moss is available in gel, capsule, or powder form. For best results, add sea moss gel to smoothies or use the powdered form in drinks. For optimal quality, choose organic, wildcrafted sea moss.
My recommendation:
Nature’s Farmer Sea Moss Gel – This organic, wildcrafted sea moss gel is packed with nutrients and comes in an easy-to-use form. Available at NaturesFarmerSea.com.
Optimizing Freediving Performance and Recovery with Supplements
For freedivers, maintaining physical and mental well-being is key to diving safely and effectively. Incorporating these powerful supplements—spirulina, natural iron, antioxidants, and sea moss—can help you optimize oxygen efficiency, enhance energy levels, and improve recovery, making each dive feel better than the last.
If you’re looking for more ways to elevate your freediving experience, check out our guide on Top 10 Essential Christmas Gifts for Freedivers in 2025 for gear and accessories that make perfect holiday gifts. Or, for unique, outside-the-box ideas, explore our post on Unique Freediving Gift Ideas for Underwater Adventurers.
With the right balance of nutrients and supplements, you’ll feel more resilient, focused, and prepared to dive deeper with each new adventure.