15 Best Biohacking Supplements to Boost Your Health Optimization

Welcome to the cutting-edge world of biohacking, where supplements are not just nutrients but tools for transformation.

This isn't traditional health enhancement; it's about pushing boundaries and redefining personal wellness

Vital info:

• Biohacking is grounded in a mix of scientific research and personal experimentation, aiming for optimal health results.
  
• By leveraging supplements, diet modifications, fitness routines, and technology, biohackers aim to enhance physical and mental performance.
  
• Common supplement choices include Omega-3s, Probiotics, and Vitamin D3, but lesser-known yet powerful options like beta glucan are gaining attention.

This post is a core aspect of our series on biohacking your body.

How Biohacking Works

Biohacking is essentially about making deliberate lifestyle or dietary changes that may lead to substantial improvements in health and overall life quality.

Biohackers believe in enhancing how their bodies and minds operate by making thoughtful changes in lifestyle, diet, and environment.

This can range from sophisticated methods like genetic modification to more accessible wellness tactics such as diet adjustments, supplements, or mindfulness practices.

From improving cognitive functions to boosting physical endurance, biohacking employs a range of practices, blending simplicity with complexity.

Modern day biohackers blend experimentation, optimization, and a bit of innovative thinking and apply them to the body.

Suggested Reading: New to biohacking? No worries; read our guide on biohacking for beginners.

Top 15 Biohacking Supplements for Biohacking

Achieving improved health and well-being often involves monitoring sleep patterns, modifying diets and using specific supplements.

Deep dive: Discover how biohacking sleep works

Below are 15 of our favorite biohacking supplements:

1. Nootropics

Nootropics, commonly known as 'smart drugs,' are supplements designed to enhance various aspects of cognitive function.

These focus on memory, creativity, motivation, and concentration.

Nootropics work by altering the supply of neurochemicals, enzymes, and hormones in the brain and are used both for cognitive enhancement in healthy individuals and as therapies for cognitive diseases. (1) (2)

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for maintaining heart health and managing cholesterol levels.

Commonly sourced from fish oil, these fatty acids are essential components of cell membranes throughout the body and affect the function of cell receptors in these membranes. (3)

They provide the starting point for making hormones that regulate blood clotting, contraction and relaxation of artery walls, and inflammation.

They also bind to receptors in cells that regulate genetic function, which is believed to be the reason for their ability to lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Deep Dive: These are the Worst Food Ingredients for Your Immune System

3. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is vital for numerous bodily functions, particularly immune response and mineral absorption.

Known for its role in potentially maintaining bone health by regulating calcium absorption, Vitamin D may also influence cell growth, neuromuscular functions, and inflammation reduction. *

Vitamin D deficiency has been recognized as a pandemic that has been linked to various health issues, including bone diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and increased susceptibility to infection. (4)

4. Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms, predominantly bacteria, that are similar to beneficial microorganisms found in the human gut.

They are often referred to as "good" or "friendly" bacteria and are pivotal for maintaining gut health.

The primary function of probiotics is to maintain a healthy balance in your digestive system by combating harmful bacteria.

This balance is crucial for good digestion, the absorption of nutrients, and a robust immune system.

Probiotics can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi or taken as supplements. (5)

Suggested Reading: Prebiotics vs Probiotics: What They Are and Why They Matter

5. Magnesium

Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, impacting everything from energy production to sleep. (6)

Deficiencies in magnesium can lead to a range of health issues, including muscle cramps, mental disorders, fatigue, and an irregular heartbeat.

Magnesium is vital for athletic performance as it helps move blood sugar through muscles and dispose of lactate, which can build up during exercise and cause fatigue.

6. Beta Glucan

Beta glucan, a form of soluble dietary fiber, is renowned for its immune-boosting benefits. * Found in the cell walls of bacteria, fungi, yeasts, and plants such as oats and barley, glucan plays a crucial role in biohacking for health optimization.

Beta glucan is a powerful immunomodulator known for activating the body's natural immune defenses.

It stimulates macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells, crucial for combating pathogens, and may strengthen the overall immune system. (7) (8) *

When the immune cells are strengthened, the body presents the fullness of a top-performing immune system.

Beta Glucan and Science

Over 50 years of medical research have been conducted on beta glucan. During this period, there were a total of over 200,000 studies published on PubMed.gov.

The following teaching hospitals and universities have been actively studying beta glucan:

• Mayo Clinic
• Harvard University
• Cornell University
• University of Massachusetts
• University of Louisville
• Memorial Sloan Kettering Center
• Baylor College of Medicine
• Defense Research Estbmt., Canada

Learn more about the beta glucan supplement here.

7. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha, a prominent herb in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, is known for its ability to help the body manage stress, reduce cortisol (the primary stress hormone), boost brain function, and help fight symptoms of anxiety and depression. (9)

8. Vitamin C

Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, is essential for the production of neurotransmitters and tissue repair.

It is widely known for its role in immune system support and is involved in many body functions, including the formation of collagen, the absorption of iron, wound healing and the maintenance of cartilage, bones, and teeth. (10)

9. Zinc

Zinc is a trace element that's necessary for a healthy immune system.

It’s involved in cell division, cell growth, wound healing, and the breakdown of carbohydrates.

Zinc is also needed for the senses of smell and taste. During pregnancy, infancy, and childhood, the body needs zinc to grow and develop properly. (11)

Dive deeper: 10 examples of biohacking for enhanced health and well-being

10. Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a naturally occurring antioxidant that is found in every cell of the body. It's essential for the production of energy and plays a significant role in protecting cells from oxidative damage.

CoQ10 levels are highest in organs with the greatest energy demands, such as the heart, kidneys, lungs, and liver. (12)

In the context of heart health, CoQ10 has been shown to improve symptoms of congestive heart failure and may help prevent and treat atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.

Additionally, its role in energy production makes it a popular supplement for combating fatigue and enhancing physical performance.

11. Lion's Mane Mushrooms

Lion's Mane Mushrooms, scientifically known as Hericium erinaceus, are medicinal mushrooms known for their potential neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties.

It has a distinctive appearance, resembling a white, shaggy lion’s mane, and is used both as a food and a supplement.

Studies suggest that Lion’s Mane mushrooms may stimulate the growth of brain cells and improve the functioning of the hippocampus, a region of the brain involved in memory and emotional responses. (13) (14)

12. Curcumin

Curcumin, the primary active compound in turmeric is renowned for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. *

It's been used traditionally in Eastern medicine for centuries and has gained significant attention in modern science for its potential health benefits. (15)

Its bioavailability can be significantly enhanced with the addition of black pepper extract, known as piperine.

Essential reading: This is how biohacking for men's health works.

13. Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a natural compound found in grape seeds, Japanese knotweed, peanuts, and blueberries.

It is a potent antioxidant that is known for its anti-aging properties.

Resveratrol has been the focus of numerous studies regarding cardiovascular health, demonstrating the potential to improve heart health and blood flow.

It's also being studied for its effects on longevity and its ability to mimic the health benefits of calorie restriction. (16)

14. Vitamin B Complex

The Vitamin B Complex comprises eight essential water-soluble vitamins that play critical roles in cell metabolism and energy synthesis.

These vitamins are crucial for various bodily functions, including red blood cell formation, energy levels, good eyesight, healthy brain function, good digestion, and nerve function.

They are also being studied for their role in weight loss as they help the body metabolize proteins, fats, and carbohydrates more efficiently.

Each B vitamin has a unique function, but they also work synergistically in the body. (17)

15. Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body and is a major component of connective tissues that make up several body parts, including tendons, ligaments, skin, and muscles.

Collagen plays a role in strengthening bones, joints, and nails and promotes hair growth.

It provides a unique combination of amino acids that have various functional properties in terms of cell and tissue health. (18)

Next steps: 

How to Incorporate Supplements into Your Routine

Incorporating supplements into your daily routine can be a game-changer for enhancing physical performance and achieving your health goals.

However, it’s important to approach this with a strategic mindset to experience the health benefits.

Here are some guidelines to help you integrate these powerful tools into your lifestyle effectively:

1. Consult healthcare professionals: Always start by consulting with your doctor or physician to understand your body's specific needs.
   
2. Align with your goals: Choose supplements that align with your personal health goals, whether it's for physical performance enhancement, cognitive improvement, or general well-being.
   
   A natural immune system supplement with proven research, such as beta glucan is a good place to start.
   
3. Integrate diet and lifestyle: Consider how your lifestyle might impact supplement effectiveness. For example, always eat a balanced, focused diet and include consistent exercise in your daily routine.
   
4. Start Slow: Begin with foundational supplements and gradually introduce new ones. This approach helps in monitoring your body's response and adjusting as needed.

Learn More: How to Get Started With Biohacking: A Beginner’s Guide

Conclusion: Embrace Supplements for a Healthier Life

Biohacking is all about making small, impactful tweaks to our daily routines and monitoring their impacts.

Integrating high-quality, natural supplements such as beta glucan can help your body maintain overall health and wellness through a stronger immune system.

With the right approach, choose supplements that align with your personal health goals, whether it's for physical performance enhancement, cognitive improvement, or general well-being.

Biohacking Supplements FAQs

What is a Biohack diet?

A Biohack diet focuses on optimizing nutritional intake to improve biological functions, often personalized based on one's genetic makeup or gut microbiome analysis, emphasizing foods that enhance physical and mental performance.

What are the benefits of biohacking?

Biohacking benefits include improved cognitive function, enhanced physical performance, better sleep quality, and overall increased control over one's health and well-being through targeted dietary and lifestyle changes.

How do I start biohacking?

To start biohacking, first identify specific health and wellness goals you wish to achieve, then consider incorporating targeted supplements into your routine, alongside dietary adjustments and fitness regimens, to enhance your body's natural performance and well-being.

(*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease)