As our world continues to evolve, people are seeking new and innovative ways to improve their overall health and well-being. One such method that has grown in popularity is biohacking. This practice involves making tweaks to our lifestyle and environment, with the aim of “hacking” our body’s biology for the better. The objective? Achieving a state of optimum physical, mental, and emotional health.
Biohacking can encompass everything from dietary changes, biohacking supplements, exercise regimens to high-tech wearables and supplements. While it may sound futuristic, the concept of biohacking is simply about understanding and applying the science of human biology to enhance our lives.
In this blog, we’re going to dive into six of the best biohacking products that can aid you on your journey to optimal health and wellness.
1. Red Light Therapy and Red Lights
Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, uses low-level wavelengths of light to treat skin issues, like wrinkles, scars, and persistent wounds. But its benefits go beyond skin deep. Research has shown that red light therapy can help reduce inflammation and pain, improve mood, promote better sleep, and even aid in weight loss [1, 2].
Joovv Red Light Therapy devices are an excellent option for those interested in the benefits of this treatment. They offer full-body and targeted devices that provide the correct wavelength and intensity needed for effective therapy.
2. Sauna
Saunas have been used for centuries as a means of relaxation, but they also offer significant health benefits. Regular sauna use can improve cardiovascular function, boost the immune system, and even aid in weight loss [3]. Additionally, sauna use may also help reduce the risk of neurocognitive diseases and improve mental health [4].
Infrared saunas, like those from Clearlight Saunas, can provide these benefits with the added bonus of lower operating temperatures, making them more comfortable for longer sessions.
3. Cold Plunge
Contrary to the warmth of saunas, cold plunges are another tool in the biohacking arsenal. Immersion in cold water is known to reduce inflammation, aid muscle recovery, and improve mental clarity [5].
The Cold Plunge Cool Pool offers a controlled, clean, and convenient cold plunge experience at home, maintaining temperatures as low as 39°F (3.9°C).
4. Blue Light Blocking Glasses
As our lives become increasingly digital, our exposure to blue light from screens has risen correspondingly. Extended exposure can disrupt our circadian rhythms and impact sleep quality [6].
Blue light-blocking glasses, like those from BLUblox, can help filter out the excess blue light and mitigate these effects, thereby aiding in improved sleep and cognitive performance.
5. Biohacking Supplements
a) Magtein
Magnesium L-threonate, known commercially as Magtein, is a form of magnesium optimized for cognitive function. It’s one of the few forms of magnesium that can effectively cross the blood-brain barrier, promoting memory, learning, and overall cognitive health [7].
b) NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)
NMN is a derivative of vitamin B3 and a precursor to NAD+, a coenzyme found in all living cells. It has gained attention for its potential to slow the aging process, improve energy metabolism, and enhance longevity [8].
c) Black Seed Oil
Used traditionally in various cultures, black seed oil has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. It may also aid in weight loss and improve skin and hair health [9].
d) Lion’s Mane
This unique mushroom offers a wealth of benefits. Lion’s Mane has been shown to support brain health, boost cognitive function, and promote nerve growth factor synthesis [10].
e) Stamets Stack
The Stamets Stack, formulated by renowned mycologist Paul Stamets, is a blend of Lion’s Mane, Psilocybin, and Niacin. The combination is suggested to promote neurogenesis and cognitive enhancement [11].
f) Berberine
Berberine, a bioactive compound found in several plants, is noted for its potential in improving various health factors, notably managing blood sugar levels and promoting heart health [12].
All these supplements can be found from trustworthy sources like Thorne and Life Extension.
6. Coconut Oil (for Oil Pulling)
Coconut oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice, involves swishing oil in the mouth on an empty stomach for 15-20 minutes. It is believed to draw out toxins, improve oral health, and even offer systemic health benefits[13].
Organic, unrefined coconut oil, like that from Nutiva, is a great choice for oil pulling due to its high lauric acid content, which possesses antimicrobial properties.
7. Nootropics and Nootropic Blends
Nootropics, often referred to as “brain-boosters” or “smart drugs,” are substances that can enhance cognitive function. They’ve gained popularity in the biohacking community for their potential to improve memory, creativity, and motivation. Let’s dive into some of the most popular ones:
a) Alpha GPC
Alpha GPC (Alpha-glycerophosphocholine) is a choline compound that has been shown to promote cognitive health, improve memory and learning, and potentially assist in the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease [14].
b) Huperzine A
Huperzine A is a substance extracted from Chinese club moss. It’s used for memory and learning enhancement and age-related memory impairment. It’s believed to work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters in the brain [15].
c) Bacopa Monnieri
Bacopa Monnieri is a traditional Ayurvedic medicinal herb recognized for its brain-enhancing properties. It’s been shown to improve memory, learning rate, and visual information processing while reducing anxiety and depression [16].
d) Magtein (Magnesium L-Threonate)
As mentioned earlier, Magtein is a form of magnesium that’s been optimized for improving cognitive function. It can cross the blood-brain barrier and has been linked to enhanced memory and reduced brain aging [7].
e) L-Theanine + Caffeine
The combination of L-Theanine, an amino acid found in tea, and caffeine is popular for its ability to promote alertness, focus, and productivity without the jitters often associated with caffeine alone. Studies have shown this combo to enhance both cognitive performance and mood [17].
f) Microdosing Psychedelics
Microdosing psychedelics, like psilocybin, is a growing trend in the biohacking community. While research is still preliminary, early findings suggest potential benefits in mood, creativity, and cognition [18].
g) Nootropic Blends
If the idea of taking individual supplements sounds overwhelming, nootropic blends might be a good solution. These blends are designed to provide a combination of different nootropics in a single dose, maximizing the cognitive benefits. A good example is Qualia Mind by Neurohacker Collective, a blend that includes Bacopa Monnieri, Alpha GPC, and other potent nootropics.
Conclusion
Biohacking isn’t about finding a magic bullet for perfect health – it’s about making small, consistent changes that amount to a healthier lifestyle. Whether it’s making the most of light and heat therapies, optimizing your nutrient intake, or exploring ancient health practices, these products offer a range of ways to hack your biology for better health and wellness. As always, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new health regimen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most extreme biohacking?
The most extreme biohacking methods may involve genetic engineering and implanting devices into the body, such as microchips. However, these methods are controversial, and they require significant knowledge, expertise, and precautions.
What are biohacking devices?
Biohacking devices can range from red light therapy panels and saunas to wearable tech like Fitbit or Oura Ring that track vitals, sleep quality, and activity levels. These tools provide data that can be used to optimize health and performance.
What are the three types of biohacking?
Biohacking generally falls into three categories: nutrigenomics, focused on how diet affects genes; DIY biology, which involves self-experimentation; and grinder, the most extreme form that includes body modifications and implants.
What are the trends in biohacking in 2023?
In 2023, trends in biohacking include a heightened interest in nootropics for cognitive enhancement, personalized nutrition based on genetic profiles, extensive use of wearable tech for health tracking, and mindfulness techniques like meditation for mental well-being.
Who is the most famous Biohacker?
Dave Asprey, the founder of Bulletproof, is often referred to as the most famous biohacker. He popularized the term and has shared numerous methods he uses to optimize his own health.
Where is biohacking illegal?
Certain forms of biohacking, like genetic manipulation or unregulated use of medical-grade devices, can be illegal or fall into legal gray areas in many countries due to safety, ethical, and regulatory concerns.
What do Biohackers eat?
Biohackers often follow diets that aim to optimize health and performance. This could include a ketogenic diet, intermittent fasting, personalized nutrition based on genetic profiles, and diets rich in brain-boosting foods or anti-inflammatory ingredients.
How to biohack yourself?
Biohacking oneself involves making lifestyle changes that may improve your health, wellness, and performance. It could include optimizing your diet, exercise, sleep, managing stress, using health tracking devices, and even taking specific supplements.
Who is the father of biohacking?
While many individuals have contributed to the field of biohacking, Dave Asprey is often called the “Father of Biohacking” due to his significant contributions to popularizing the movement.
What is biohacking for weight loss?
Biohacking for weight loss involves making lifestyle changes to optimize metabolic health and body composition. This could include intermittent fasting, personalized diets, regular exercise, optimizing sleep, and the use of certain supplements that may support weight loss.
What are the disadvantages of biohacking?
Potential disadvantages of biohacking include the risk of unregulated or unsafe practices, potential adverse effects of extreme dietary changes or supplement use, privacy concerns with health data, and the risk of overemphasis on health optimization leading to stress or anxiety.
How do you Biohack your body for growth?
Biohacking for growth might involve a focus on nutrition, sleep optimization, and exercise, all crucial factors in growth and recovery. Certain supplements like human growth hormone (HGH) or safer alternatives could be used under medical supervision.
References
- Avci, P., Gupta, A., Sadasivam, M., Vecchio, D., Pam, Z., Pam, N., & Hamblin, M. R. (2013). Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring. Seminars in cutaneous medicine and surgery, 32(1), 41–52.
- Salehpour F, Mahmoudi J, Kamari F, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Rasta SH, Hamblin MR. (2019). Brain Photobiomodulation Therapy: a Narrative Review. Molecular Neurobiology. 56, 3886–3929.
- Laukkanen, T., Khan, H., Zaccardi, F., & Laukkanen, J. A. (2015). Association between sauna bathing and fatal cardiovascular and all-cause mortality events. JAMA Internal Medicine, 175(4), 542-548.
- Laukkanen, T., Kunutsor, S., Kauhanen, J., & Laukkanen, J. A. (2017). Sauna bathing is inversely associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in middle-aged Finnish men. Age and Ageing, 46(2), 245-249. Buijze, G. A., & Hopman, M. T. (2018). Controlled hypothermia and the immune response; lessons learned from post-cardiac arrest patients. Temperature (Austin, Tex.), 5(1), 25–29.
- Buijze, G. A., & Hopman, M. T. (2018). Controlled hypothermia and the immune response; lessons learned from post-cardiac arrest patients. Temperature (Austin, Tex.), 5(1), 25–29.
- Shechter, A., Kim, E. W., St-Onge, M. P., & Westwood, A. J. (2018). Blocking nocturnal blue light for insomnia: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 96, 196-202.
- Liu, G., Weinger, J. G., Lu, Z. L., Xue, F., & Sadeghpour, S. (2014). Efficacy and Safety of MMFS-01, a Synapse Density Enhancer, for Treating Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, 49(4), 971–990.
- Mills, K. F., Yoshida, S., Stein, L. R., Grozio, A., Kubota, S., Sasaki, Y., Redpath, P., Migaud, M. E., Apte, R. S., Uchida, K., Yoshino, J., & Imai, S. (2016). Long-Term Administration of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Mitigates Age-Associated Physiological Decline in Mice. Cell Metabolism, 24(6), 795–806.
- Ahmad, A., Husain, A., Mujeeb, M., Khan, S. A., Najmi, A. K., Siddique, N. A., Damanhouri, Z. A., & Anwar, F. (2013). A review on therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa: A miracle herb. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 3(5), 337–352.
- Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K., Azumi, Y., & Tuchida, T. (2009). Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytotherapy Research, 23(3), 367–372.
- Stamets, P. (2017). Psilocybin Mushrooms of the World: An Identification Guide. Ten Speed Press.
- Yin, J., Xing, H., & Ye, J. (2008). Efficacy of Berberine in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes. Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental, 57(5), 712–717.
- Peedikayil, F. C., Sreenivasan, P., & Narayanan, A. (2015). Effect of coconut oil in plaque related gingivitis — A preliminary report. Nigerian Medical Journal: Journal of the Nigeria Medical Association, 56(2), 143–147.
- Zeisel SH. (2004). Nutritional importance of choline for brain development. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 23(6 Suppl), 621S-626S.
- Ma, T., Gong, K., Ao, Q., Yan, Y., Song, B., Huang, H., Zhang, X., & Gong, Y. (2013). Huperzine A promotes neural stem cell proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. Neuroscience Letters, 539, 65-70.
- Stough, C., Downey, L. A., Lloyd, J., Silber, B., Redman, S., Hutchison, C., Wesnes, K., & Nathan, P. J. (2008). Examining the nootropic effects of a special extract of Bacopa monniera on human cognitive functioning: 90 day double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial. Phytotherapy research: PTR, 22(12), 1629–1634.
- Owen, G. N., Parnell, H., De Bruin, E. A., & Rycroft, J. A. (2008). The combined effects of L-theanine and caffeine on cognitive performance and mood. Nutritional neuroscience, 11(4), 193–198.
- Prochazkova, L., Lippelt, D. P., Colzato, L. S., Kuchar, M., Sjoerds, Z., & Hommel, B. (2018). Exploring the effect of microdosing psychedelics on creativity in an open-label natural setting. Psychopharmacology, 235(12), 3401-3413.
