If You Can’t Stomach Blood, Drink This Instead
I’m not a doctor, and this is not medical advice. On that topic, neither is Bryan Johnson, the near-billionaire founder of Braintree, who has committed all his time and $2M/year to try and reverse biological aging. The tldr is that he’s using massive piles of data (his entire house has been transformed into a lab with a team of clinicians) to make informed decisions on obtaining this goal.
Much of what he’s doing is far out of reach for most people regarding time and money. But there are a few nuggets I’ve picked up. One is a drink he has every morning called The Green Giant. I’ve made a few tweaks to it and renamed mine The Daywalker. Bryan has a vampire vibe, and I prefer a little more time outside in the sun.
Here’s the (tweaked) recipe:
2 cups of water
Amino Complex (lemon) 7.7 g
Creatine 5g
Collagen Peptides 20 g
Cocoa Flavanols 500 mg
Ceylon Cinnamon 1 tsp
Turmeric 1 ts
Tips for Mixing:
I’m assuming that one of Byran’s minions prepares pre-mixed servings for him because if I had $900M, this isn’t how I’d spend my time. Powdered chlorella and turmeric will not only become airborne as you spoon them into a container, but they will also immediately stain light-colored surfaces — namely white quartz counters. It’s worth covering your working surface.
Do this in bulk. I use these containers to spoon out a couple of week’s worth of doses at a time (just the dry powder — I add the water only prior to drinking).
After many attempts at mixing this by spoon or frother, I finally settled on a Blender Bottle (simple plastic protein shake container with a mixing ball inside) . I throw a few ice cubes inside there to make it a bit more palatable. Lastly, don’t procrastinate. The ingredients settle very quickly after you blend them.
The Low Down on These Live-Forever Ingredients
Chlorella, a freshwater algae, is often lauded for its potential health benefits, particularly in the context of longevity. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential amino acids, chlorella can aid in combating oxidative stress, a key factor in cellular aging and degenerative diseases. Its detoxifying properties support liver and kidney function, facilitating the removal of heavy metals and toxins, thereby potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases that can shorten lifespan. Additionally, chlorella has been studied for its ability to support the immune system, thereby equipping the body to fight off infections more effectively. Some evidence also suggests that chlorella could play a role in improving cholesterol and blood sugar levels, both of which are critical for cardiovascular health — a significant concern in aging populations. While not a miracle cure, the nutrient-dense profile of chlorella makes it a promising supplement for those interested in health optimization and longevity.
Free-form amino complex powder offers a comprehensive blend of essential and non-essential amino acids, the foundational components of proteins crucial for numerous bodily functions. When it comes to longevity, such a supplement might offer multiple benefits. For example, it can aid in preserving lean muscle mass, a key concern as we age and face the risk of sarcopenia or muscle loss. The supplement’s support for optimal metabolic function also cannot be overlooked; amino acids like arginine and lysine have been linked to improved cardiovascular health, a major consideration for a longer life. Furthermore, some amino acids in the complex are precursors for vital neurotransmitters, thereby promoting mental acuity and emotional well-being — especially important in aging. The free-form amino complex powder can be a potent tool in a multifaceted approach to health optimization and longevity.
Creatine monohydrate is widely recognized for enhancing athletic performance, but its potential benefits extend into longevity. Creatine serves as a quick energy reserve, particularly useful for high-intensity, short-duration activities, but its role in cellular energy metabolism also suggests a broader impact on cellular health. By aiding in regenerating ATP, the body’s primary energy currency, creatine may support cellular function and resilience, which are key in combating age-related decline. Preliminary research has also indicated that creatine may have neuroprotective effects, which could be valuable in mitigating age-associated neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Furthermore, creatine supplementation has been linked to improved muscle preservation, a significant concern as muscle loss is a common issue associated with aging. While more research is needed to establish the long-term effects of creatine on lifespan, its multifaceted role in cellular energy metabolism and tissue preservation makes it an intriguing compound for longevity
Collagen peptides have gained attention for their potential role in promoting longevity through various mechanisms. As one of the primary structural proteins in the body, collagen is vital for maintaining the integrity of skin, hair, nails, joints, and connective tissues. Natural collagen production declines with age, leading to wrinkles, joint pain, and decreased bone density. Supplementing collagen peptides can counteract these effects by promoting skin elasticity and hydration, potentially delaying signs of aging. Beyond aesthetics, collagen peptides contribute to joint and bone health, offering some protection against age-related conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis. They may facilitate faster wound healing and offer gut health benefits, affecting long-term well-being. While collagen peptides are not a panacea for aging, their multifaceted contributions to bodily maintenance make them a promising supplement for those looking to enhance their quality of life into their later years
Cocoa flavanols, naturally occurring compounds found in cocoa, have garnered attention for their potential role in promoting longevity and overall well-being. Rich in antioxidants, these flavanols can counteract oxidative stress, a pivotal factor in aging and the onset of age-related diseases. Additionally, cocoa flavanols have been shown to improve endothelial function, promoting better blood flow and cardiovascular health — a significant consideration for longevity. These compounds have also been linked to improved cognitive function, including enhanced memory and attention, precious attributes as one age. Some studies suggest that cocoa flavanols could help regulate blood sugar levels, potentially benefiting metabolic health. While they are not a panacea, the various health-promoting properties of cocoa flavanols make them a compelling subject for those interested in strategies to extend life and enhance its quality
Ceylon cinnamon, often called “true cinnamon,” has been the subject of various studies for its potential health-promoting properties, especially concerning longevity. Rich in antioxidants, it actively combats oxidative stress, a critical factor in cellular aging and the onset of age-related diseases. Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties that could mitigate chronic inflammation and is increasingly recognized as a contributor to long-term health issues and decreased lifespan. Its role in supporting metabolic health is particularly noteworthy; Ceylon cinnamon has been researched for its capacity to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, factors that have direct implications on diabetes management and cardiovascular health. Both conditions are significant concerns as one ages and are linked to a decreased lifespan. While not a panacea, including Ceylon cinnamon in a balanced diet might offer multiple benefits that align with the goals of increasing longevity and maintaining optimal health
Turmeric, particularly its active component curcumin, has gained attention for its potential contributions to longevity and overall well-being. Renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric may combat cellular damage and oxidative stress, factors often associated with aging and age-related diseases. Studies have suggested that turmeric may help modulate blood sugar levels and improve lipid profiles, thereby supporting cardiovascular health — a significant consideration for extending lifespan. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory effects affect cognitive health, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s. While not a panacea, the multifaceted health benefits of turmeric make it a compelling addition to a longevity-focused lifestyle.
