A comprehensive look at the supplements Laird Hamilton has publicly shared as part of his routine at age 60
At 60 years old, Laird Hamilton continues riding waves that would terrify athletes half his age. The legendary big-wave surfer's longevity in one of the world's most demanding sports comes down to more than raw talent—it's built on a carefully curated supplement routine that starts the moment he wakes up. Hamilton isn't just a consumer of supplements; he's also the founder of Laird Superfood, a company he launched in 2015 based on his personal experimentation with fat-loaded coffee and whole-food nutrition. His philosophy centers on whole foods and minimal processing, stating that "the more natural it is, the more unprocessed stuff in it, the better".
Whether you're looking to enhance your energy and focus or support athletic performance, understanding Hamilton's approach offers valuable insight into science-backed supplementation for active lifestyles.
Key Takeaways
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Morning coffee is his foundation – Hamilton's entire supplement routine centers on a loaded coffee ritual featuring multiple fats, mushrooms, and anti-inflammatory compounds that fuel his training sessions
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Real food over pills – He explicitly prefers powdered supplements, calling them "the purest form, next to eating a cartload of fruit and vegetables"
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Fat creates more even energy – The combination of MCTs, ghee, and coconut in his morning drink may slow caffeine absorption for a steadier energy curve and fewer “spike-and-crash” effects
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Functional mushrooms are essential – His daily performance mushroom blend includes Lion's Mane for cognitive support, Cordyceps for energy, and Chaga for oxidative stress defense
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Post-workout protein is non-negotiable – Hamilton insists on consuming protein within one hour of training, stating "otherwise your body starts eating itself"
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Recovery drives performance – Anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric appear throughout his stack to manage the physical demands of extreme surfing
The Morning Coffee Ritual
1. Laird Superfood Original Creamer: The Foundation of His Energy
The centerpiece of Laird Hamilton's supplement routine is his Original Creamer, a coconut-based coffee additive he developed after years of experimenting with fat-loaded coffee.
Key ingredients and benefits:
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Coconut milk powder rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) for rapid energy conversion
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Aquamin – a mineral-rich calcified sea algae providing natural calcium and trace minerals
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Coconut sugar as a low-glycemic natural sweetener
Hamilton credits this creamer with his ability to sustain long training sessions without food. He explained in a Men's Health interview that "my sustained energy is crazy. I can run or ride or swim or surf for six, eight hours, and not need anything" after drinking his loaded coffee. The sustained energy may come from fat slowing digestion and changing how quickly caffeine is absorbed, creating the “time-released effect” Hamilton describes rather than a sharp spike-and-crash pattern.
MCTs are absorbed and metabolized differently than many long-chain fats and can be rapidly used for energy; in some contexts they may increase ketone production, which is one reason people associate them with steadier energy. This mechanism may help explain why some people report being able to train longer after a fat-based coffee—though individual results vary.
For those seeking similar sustained energy without building a complex coffee ritual, green superfood powders offer a one-scoop solution that supports all-day focus and vitality through organic greens, probiotics, and B-vitamins.
2. Laird Superfood Performance Mushrooms: Cognitive and Physical Support
Every morning, Hamilton adds a functional mushroom blend to his coffee. In his personal routine, he's mentioned using "shiitake, maitake, lion's mane, and cordyceps" mushrooms. His commercial Performance Mushroom product contains four key varieties at 500mg each: Chaga, Cordyceps, Lion's Mane, and Maitake.
Each mushroom serves specific functions:
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Chaga – Defense against oxidative stress; according to Laird Superfood, Chaga mushrooms in this blend contain around 30 times more antioxidants than blueberries
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Cordyceps – Supports energy production and exercise performance; traditionally used for over 2,000 years in traditional medicine
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Lion's Mane – Targets cognitive function and brain health; research suggests potential neuroprotective properties
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Maitake – Immune system modulation and cellular health
The mushrooms are USA-grown and organic, featuring full-spectrum powder from both fruiting body and mycelium. The cognitive benefits of functional mushrooms align with what many longevity-focused supplements aim to deliver—sustained mental clarity and cellular protection without stimulants.
3. Laird Superfood Turmeric Creamer: Anti-Inflammatory Recovery
Given the physical demands of big-wave surfing, Hamilton prioritizes anti-inflammatory support through his Turmeric Creamer. As documented in his daily routine, he adds "one scoop of turmeric creamer" to his morning coffee.
Why turmeric matters for athletes:
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Contains curcumin, widely studied for natural anti-inflammatory properties
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Combined with the same coconut-based MCT foundation for sustained energy
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Supports recovery from intense training sessions and joint stress
This addition serves dual purposes: the MCTs provide sustained energy while the turmeric addresses inflammation. For athletes or active individuals experiencing joint stress or workout-related soreness, turmeric supplementation represents one of the most research-backed natural approaches to recovery support.
The Healthy Fat Protocol
4. Ghee and Raw Butter: The Original Time-Release Formula
Before creating Laird Superfood, Hamilton pioneered his own fat-loaded coffee using one teaspoon of ghee or raw butter blended with espresso. This practice predates the mainstream "bulletproof coffee" trend and directly inspired his eventual product line.
How the fat-binding mechanism works:
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Dietary fat slows caffeine absorption in the digestive system
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Prevents rapid blood caffeine spike and subsequent crash
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Creates steady 6-8 hour energy release for sustained performance
Hamilton explained the mechanism clearly: "Because the caffeine and the fat are together, you time-release it...I get this time-released effect". While he now uses his commercial creamers, he still adds traditional ghee for extra healthy fats when preparing his morning beverage.
The emphasis on quality fats reflects a broader understanding of how nutrition supports athletic performance—something that extends to cellular health optimization through proper nutrient delivery.
5. Red Palm Oil: Antioxidant-Rich Fat Diversity
Hamilton diversifies his fat intake by adding "a half-teaspoon of fair-trade red palm oil" to his morning coffee.
Unique benefits of red palm oil:
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High concentrations of vitamin E and carotenoids
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Contains tocotrienols—a potent form of vitamin E with strong antioxidant properties
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Different nutritional profile than coconut-based fats for synergistic effects
His insistence on fair-trade sourcing reflects Hamilton's broader philosophy about quality and ethical consumption. The addition of red palm oil demonstrates how he approaches supplementation: multiple sources of similar nutrients working together rather than relying on any single ingredient.
6. Raw Coconut: MCT Foundation
Completing his morning fat stack, Hamilton adds one teaspoon of raw coconut to his coffee. This whole-food source provides additional MCTs along with fiber that processed coconut oil lacks. The raw form maintains more of the natural nutritional profile compared to refined alternatives.
This multi-fat approach—combining creamers, ghee, red palm oil, and coconut—can increase satiety and may contribute to steadier energy for some people, depending on overall diet and tolerance.
Hydration and Vitamin Support
7. Laird Superfood Morning Jumpstart (ACTIVATE): The Pre-Coffee Ritual
Before his elaborate coffee preparation, Hamilton starts his day with hydration and vitamin C through his Morning Jumpstart product.
Five real-food ingredients:
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Organic freeze-dried lemon powder – equivalent to six whole lemons per bag, providing natural vitamin C
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Organic ginger powder – digestive support and anti-inflammatory properties
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Organic cayenne pepper – metabolism support and circulation
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Organic lucuma – natural sweetener with low glycemic impact
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Sea salt – electrolytes for hydration
Mixed with 12 ounces of water, this serves as an alkalizing morning drink that provides immune support through natural vitamin C before the caffeine from his coffee ritual kicks in. The simplicity of the formula reflects Hamilton's preference for whole-food supplementation over complex synthetic blends.
Those seeking comprehensive daily nutrition can achieve similar goals through superfood formulas that deliver vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in a single serving.
8. Laird Superfood Matcha: The Coffee Alternative
For variety or lower-caffeine days, Hamilton includes matcha in his rotation. His matcha product combines organic matcha green tea with his signature coconut milk powder base, providing natural calcium, iron, and vitamin C alongside the antioxidants inherent in quality matcha.
Benefits of matcha vs. coffee:
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L-theanine creates calmer energy without jitteriness
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Natural antioxidants support cellular health
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Lower caffeine content for recovery days
The matcha option demonstrates Hamilton's understanding that different days and activities may require different energy profiles. Heavy training days might call for his full coffee ritual, while recovery days could benefit from matcha's gentler stimulation.
Training and Recovery Essentials
9. Protein Powder: The Non-Negotiable Post-Workout
Hamilton considers post-workout protein absolutely essential to his training regimen. In his Life Extension interview, he stated emphatically: "Within an hour after training, you've got to eat—otherwise your body starts eating itself".
Why timing matters:
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The post-workout window represents peak muscle protein synthesis opportunity
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Amino acids from protein prevent muscle catabolism
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Supports recovery and adaptation to training stress
While he hasn't publicly specified a particular brand, his commitment to timely protein intake reflects standard sports nutrition science around muscle protein synthesis windows. Many sports nutrition sources suggest ~20–40g of protein post-training is a common target range for supporting recovery, depending on body size, training, and total daily intake.
For athletes pushing their bodies through intense training, adequate protein intake prevents muscle breakdown and supports recovery. Those interested in convenient muscle recovery support might consider creatine supplementation, which supports strength, power, and post-workout recovery in an easy-to-take format.
10. Powdered Vitamin C and Greens: Micronutrient Insurance
Rounding out his supplement stack, Hamilton uses powdered vitamin C and powdered greens for foundational micronutrient coverage. He explained his preference clearly: "Powdered vitamin C and powdered greens: 'They're just about the purest form, next to eating a cartload of fruit and vegetables'".
Why powdered formats:
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Higher bioavailability compared to tablets or capsules
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Easier integration into smoothies or beverages
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Maximizes nutrient density through whole-food-derived sources
This philosophy drives his entire approach—reducing pill count while maximizing nutrient density. These represent nutritional insurance that fills gaps even his careful diet might miss. XV1's approach to daily greens mirrors this philosophy—one scoop delivers organic greens, red antioxidants, immune support, and probiotics without the complexity of multiple products.
Building Your Own Science-Backed Stack with XV1
Laird Hamilton's supplement regimen offers a masterclass in intentional, research-backed supplementation for peak performance and longevity. His approach reveals several core principles: prioritize real-food ingredients, time supplements strategically around training, address multiple systems (energy, cognition, recovery, inflammation) through complementary products, and maintain consistency over complexity.
The legendary surfer's routine evolved over decades of experimentation, refinement, and deep attention to how his body responds to different nutrients at different times. While his morning coffee ritual involves multiple components, each serves a clear, evidence-based purpose. Whether you're an elite athlete or someone simply looking for better daily energy and vitality, the transferable insight remains the same: understand what each supplement does, use quality ingredients, and build a routine you'll actually maintain.
XV1 simplifies this science-backed approach through carefully formulated products that deliver Hamilton's core principles without the complexity of a ten-supplement stack. Rather than measuring multiple powders into your morning coffee, XV1 offers streamlined solutions that address the same foundational needs Hamilton prioritizes: sustained energy, cellular health, recovery support, and comprehensive nutrition.
For those seeking sustained energy and cognitive clarity similar to Hamilton's fat-loaded coffee ritual, XV1 Green Superfood Powder delivers organic greens, B-vitamins for energy metabolism, probiotics for gut health, and antioxidants for cellular protection—all in one daily scoop. The formula is vegan, keto-friendly, paleo-compatible, and contains no added sugar or artificial ingredients. It provides the micronutrient foundation Hamilton achieves through his powdered greens and vitamin C, with the convenience of a single, science-backed blend.
Recovery and performance drive Hamilton's supplement choices, particularly his emphasis on post-workout protein and muscle support. XV1 Creatine Gummies offer 1,000mg of pure creatine monohydrate per gummy—one of the most extensively researched performance supplements available. Creatine supports strength, power output, and post-workout recovery without the need for loading phases or mixing powders. The vegan, gluten-free gummies are naturally flavored with real fruit, making consistent supplementation effortless.
For joint health and connective tissue support—critical for Hamilton's longevity in a punishing sport—XV1 Liquid Collagen delivers hydrolyzed Type I and III collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid for joint lubrication, biotin for skin and hair health, and zinc for immune function. Just one tablespoon daily provides fast-absorbing liquid collagen that supports joints, skin elasticity, hair strength, and nail health. The sugar-free, dairy-free, gluten-free formula fits seamlessly into any morning routine.
Complete wellness requires addressing multiple systems simultaneously—exactly what Hamilton accomplishes through his layered supplement approach. XV1's comprehensive product line targets energy and focus, longevity and vitality, detox and cellular health, and foundational nutrition through science-backed formulations. Each product undergoes rigorous quality testing and comes with The money-back guarantee, reflecting the same commitment to quality and transparency that drives Hamilton's own brand.
The beauty of XV1's approach lies in its flexibility. Start with one foundational product like the Green Superfood Powder for comprehensive daily nutrition. Layer in Creatine Gummies if performance and recovery matter to your training. Add Liquid Collagen for joint support as you age. XV1's subscription model offers convenience with the freedom to edit, skip, or cancel anytime—no complex commitment, just consistent support for your health goals.
Hamilton's decades of experimentation demonstrate that consistency trumps complexity. His routine works because he performs it daily, understanding how each component supports his specific demands. Your supplement stack should reflect the same principle: choose quality products that address your actual needs, use them consistently, and evaluate results over weeks and months rather than days. Whether you're surfing big waves at 60 or simply pursuing an active, vibrant lifestyle, the science-backed foundation remains the same—and XV1 makes it accessible in formats designed for modern life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific benefits does Laird Hamilton seek from his supplement regimen?
Hamilton's primary goals are sustained energy for extended training sessions, cognitive clarity for split-second decisions in dangerous surf conditions, anti-inflammatory support for recovery, and overall longevity. His approach targets these through fat-based energy (MCTs, ghee, coconut), brain support (Lion's Mane mushrooms), and recovery compounds (turmeric). The combination allows him to train 6-8 hours without food while managing the physical demands of big-wave surfing at age 60.
Why does Laird Hamilton add fat to his coffee?
Fat slows caffeine absorption, creating what Hamilton calls a "time-released effect" that provides consistent energy for hours rather than a spike-and-crash pattern. This mechanism allows him to train for extended periods without needing food. The combination of MCTs, ghee, coconut oil, and red palm oil creates sustained energy release while supporting nutrient absorption and satiety throughout demanding training schedules.
How does Hamilton's "real food" philosophy compare to traditional supplements?
Hamilton prefers powdered, whole-food-derived supplements over synthetic capsules, believing they're the purest form next to actual fruits and vegetables. This aligns with current nutrition science suggesting better bioavailability from food-matrix nutrients compared to isolated compounds. His emphasis on minimal processing and recognizable ingredients reflects a broader trend toward transparency and quality in supplementation.
Are all of Laird Hamilton's supplements from his own brand?
Most supplements on this list come from Laird Superfood, the company Hamilton founded in 2015 based on his personal experimentation with fat-loaded coffee and whole-food nutrition. Some items like ghee and red palm oil are general food products he sources separately. His brand creation stemmed from years of refining formulations that met his standards for ingredients, processing methods, and effectiveness.
What should someone new to supplements take away from Hamilton's routine?
Start with fundamentals: quality greens for micronutrients, adequate protein for recovery, and consider how timing affects results. Hamilton's routine evolved over decades—building your own science-backed ritual doesn't require matching his complexity immediately. One well-formulated daily supplement like XV1 Green Superfood often delivers more consistent results than multiple products used inconsistently. Focus on consistency, quality ingredients, and addressing your actual needs rather than replicating someone else's exact stack.
