Biohacking is ever the buzz word. It’s been around since the mid-2000’s and, it would appear, it’s not just some flash in the pan. Instead it’s evolving with us, meeting our demands as the years tick on. After all, more than ever we’re focussing on our health and how to make the years count.
When you think of biohacking you probably think of standard ice baths and saunas (although we’re pretty pro those), but, as you’ll see, there’s so much more to know and dive into when it comes to hacking your way to better health. We caught up with Camilla Thompson and Azra Alagic, who are pioneering health coaches specialising in longevity, to talk about what’s new in the world of hacks. And how to do it in an achievable, realistic and inexpensive way (we like those words).
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What the experts have to say about biohacking
“You can level up contrast therapy by biohacking stacking – adding multiple biohacks for maximum benefit – like taking liposomal glutathione when you have a sauna to support further detox and repair,” says Thompson.
“As women who specialise in realistic – and exciting – hacks, we’d love to introduce you to the latest trends in optimising your health and longevity. Whether you’re 25 or 45, these innovative practices can help you take control of your biology and live your best life.”
So, what exactly is biohacking?
From cutting-edge nutrition to mind-enhancing practices, biohacking is the art and science of changing the environment around you and inside you, so you have more control of your biology and can control how well (or poorly) you age. We’ll take some more of that.
What shouldn’t biohacking be? Unaffordable tech or consuming a cereal bowl of supplements like some millionaire biohackers are doing.
“It’s about making small, sustainable changes that can have a big impact on your health span—how long you live well, not just how long you live. Most of us agree that none of us want to end up in an aged care facility, frail and slowly wasting away which is why, as two of Australia’s only female biohackers, we’re passionate about helping women to slow down the clock and ensure we can all live well longer,” explains Alagic.
It’s all about achievable hacks that won’t bust your bank balance. See below, Thompson and Alagic’s top picks for what to look out for when it comes to biohacking.
17 biohacks that are signalling a new wave in health hacks
Methylene Blue: to enhance brain function
Originally used as a dye and for medical purposes, Methylene Blue is now being explored for its potential cognitive enhancement and neuroprotective effects. It’s gaining popularity among biohackers for its ability to improve memory, focus, and mitochondrial function.
Unsplash: Adrien Ledoux
Peptide Therapy: to accelerate healing
Peptides like BPC-157 and TB-500 are being used to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and support overall recovery. These small proteins are essential for communication between cells and can enhance your body’s natural healing processes.
Stem Cell Therapy: to regenerate cells and support immunity
For those willing to go on a medical holiday, stem cell therapy offers incredible regenerative potential. This treatment helps regenerate damaged tissues, treats chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, reduces the need for surgery, supports immune system modulation, and accelerates healing.
Shilajit: to give you the extra health boost
This black sticky magic supertonic resin has gone viral on Tiktok and Insta for good reason, Its a powerhouse antioxidant and rare mineral with many health benefits. We take it everyday.
Biohacker Glasses: to support sweet slumber
Blocking out blue light and supporting your circadian rhythms, biohacker glasses are becoming a must-have accessory. These glasses help reduce eye strain and improve sleep quality by filtering out disruptive blue light from screens.
Cognitive Enhancements: to boost your brain (even more)
Improving brain function is the next big trend. Whether through nootropics or advanced tech like Brain Tap, biohackers are finding ways to enhance memory, focus, and overall cognitive performance.
Nootropics: to sharpen your mind
Nootropics, also known as “smart drugs,” are supplements or substances that can enhance cognitive function, particularly executive functions like memory, creativity, or motivation. Popular nootropics include caffeine, L-theanine, and racetams. These can provide the extra mental edge needed for peak performance.
Functional Beverages: to optimise your drinks
Drinks infused with adaptogens, nootropics, and other beneficial compounds are becoming popular for their convenience and health benefits. Kava is an amazing natural alternative to alcohol which many women are choosing to give up to reduce its harmful effects and how much it ages us.
Longevity Eating: to eat food as medicine
Choosing foods that are scientifically proven to reduce inflammation and support longevity is key. The Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and antioxidants, is a great example. Incorporating turmeric, nuts, and other anti-inflammatory foods into your diet can help maintain gut balance and overall health. Remember to honour your bio-individuality when it comes to all things nutrition.
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NMN and NAD Therapy: to energise your cells
NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) and NAD (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) therapy are gaining traction for their potential to boost cellular energy and combat ageing. NMN is a precursor to NAD, a crucial molecule involved in energy production and DNA repair. Supplementing with NMN can increase NAD levels, promoting better cellular function and potentially extending lifespan. We love this stuff, it’s a non-negotiable supplement for ageing and women respond best to NMN.
Reduce Your Toxic Load: to chemical detox
Women are exposed to an average of 168 chemicals a day through personal care products, household cleaners, and environmental pollutants. Reducing your toxic load involves choosing clean, non-toxic products and being mindful of what you bring into your home. A recent study has shown tampons contain lead, arsenic and other chemicals. Simple swaps like using natural skincare, eco-friendly cleaners, and avoiding plastic can make a significant difference in your overall health. Check out the app Yuka to help clean your life of toxins!
Seed Cycling: to get in step with your hormones
Seed cycling involves consuming specific seeds at different phases of your menstrual cycle to support hormonal balance. This natural approach can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce PMS symptoms, and improve overall hormonal health. Flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds are consumed during the follicular phase, while sesame and sunflower seeds are consumed during the luteal phase.
Hormone Biohacking: to balance your endocrine system
Hormonal health is crucial for overall well-being. Biohacking your hormones involves lifestyle and dietary changes that support endocrine function. This can include managing stress through mindfulness practices, ensuring adequate sleep, and consuming nutrient-dense foods that support hormonal balance.
Fasting for Hormones: to reset and rebalance hormones and overall health
Intermittent fasting and other forms of fasting can help reset and rebalance your hormones. Fasting has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, support detoxification, and promote cellular repair processes. By incorporating fasting into your routine, you can support hormonal health and overall vitality. Make sure you consider age group when choosing whether to fast or not.
Hydrogen Therapy: to reduce inflammation and stress
Hydrogen therapy involves inhaling hydrogen gas or drinking hydrogen-infused water. It’s known for its antioxidant properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation at the cellular level. This can improve energy, support detoxification, and enhance overall cellular health.
Water Quality: to optimise hydration
The quality of the water you drink is crucial for your health. Ensure your water is clean and free from contaminants. Using a high-quality water filter can make a significant difference. Sprinkle some Celtic sea salt into your water for the ultimate hydration boost.
Embrace Ageing with Confidence: to make peace with and love your age
Fear of Growing Old (FOGO) is real, but ageing doesn’t have to be something we dread. By incorporating these biohacks into your daily routine, you can take control of the ageing process and embrace each year with confidence and vitality. It’s time to move past the fear and focus on living well, longer.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into these new biohacking trends and start your journey towards a healthier, more vibrant life today.
Biohacking FAQ
What is an example of biohacking?
The most common example of a biohack is wearable tech, so the Apple watch on your arm, the Fitbit, even blood glucose monitors you see diabetics and non-diabetics alike sporting on their upper arms. Then there’s less obvious but equally as common examples: intermittent fasting, salts in water, bluelight blocking at night for better quality sleep – the list goes on.
When did biohacking become a thing?
Biohacking emerged initially in the mid-2000s when genetic sequencing became more accessible and cost effective. That rise in tangible information created a thirst, and since people have looked to learn more about their bodies and how they can hack their way to better health.
What is a biohack diet?
The term ‘biohack diet’ is often associated with the keto diet. This is because the crux of the diet is all about burning energy from fat, not carbohydrates (sugars). The body then produces a what’s called ‘ketone bodies’, hence the name ‘keto’. This method is used a lot for fat loss and to reduce body-fat percentage to the minimum.
