Eli5: how can free divers hold their breath for so long without causing brain damage?

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If it only takes 4 minutes without oxygen to cause brain damage, how can they stay underwater for 4+ minuets and not hurt themselves.

In: Biology

10 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

One part of the answer is that divers pack air before diving. They hold their nose and literally take large gulps of air and swallow them (it appears). Then, they somehow access those pockets of extra air while under water. It gives them more time. Hence, brain receives additional oxygen. Probably more to it though

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