May 4, 2024
After years spent self-healing his body from chronic health conditions through biohacking alone, Tim Gray embarked on a mission to educate and empower the masses.
As such, he created the Health Optimisation Summit, Europe’s largest health conference, which aims to provide people with the knowledge, tools, and resources to take their health and performance to the next level.
In this episode, Tim and I discuss a range of topics, including new technologies and the lineup for the 2024 Health Optimisation Summit, breathwork, mitohormesis (mildly stressing your mitochondria to enhance your health and longevity), peptides, protocols for using methylene blue, my beauty regimen, and much more!
So, who is Tim Gray?
Tim is known as the UK's leading biohacker and the founder of the fantastic Health Optimisation Summit. The Summit is a world-first collaboration between US-based health titans Bulletproof Biohacking Conference and Paleof(x), showcasing the best speakers from the health, biohacking, fitness, longevity, nutrition, and functional and preventative medicine spaces. Tim is also the man behind the Biohacker London Meetup group, a growing global community that laid the foundation in the UK for the Summit’s success.
Tim is also a multi-time podcast guest, and has joined me on the shows:
- The Latest New Health Gadgets You’ve Never Heard Of, The Intersection of AI & Biohacking, Miracle Mornings & Much More With Tim Gray.
- How UK’s Leading Biohacker Eats, Drinks, & Optimizes His Life: An Interview With Tim Gray.
With his in-depth expertise and knack for curating high-caliber content, Tim successfully draws in the biggest names in the health optimization arena to speak about the most cutting-edge health-enhancing techniques, and he's always a wealth of knowledge when I interview him on my show.
Be sure to join Tim and me in London on June 15–16 at the Health Optimisation Summit 2024 — the ultimate gathering for anyone passionate about biohacking, wellness, and living their best life. You can grab your tickets here!
During this discussion, you'll discover:
-Tim Gray…01:04
- Health Optimisation Podcast — Tim Gray's podcast
- The UK’s leading biohacker
- Tim and Ben are doing a dual podcast episode
- Health Optimisation Summit 2024 in London
- This is going to be Ben’s third year at the Summit
-Dr. John Lieurance’s methylene blue prostate protocol…03:13
- Methylene blue IV drip done on Ben in Dr. Lieurance's clinic
- Ultrasound-guided prostate injection with methylene blue and ozone
- Decreased prostate-specific antigen
- Reduced nighttime urination
- Reduced yeast, fungal, and bacterial infection in the prostate
- Recent podcast with Dr. John Lieurance:
- Tim had the same procedure done — ketamine helped him not to feel sore
- Went back a few weeks ago for a second shot
- Nighttime urination has stopped
- Dr. John wants to rename the procedure “The Barking Elephant Protocol” — the ozone gas comes out of the urethra
-New technologies for the Summit in 2024…08:16
- Last year's Summit had the Human Regenerator — a cellular regeneration therapy chamber
- Ions and electrons in a 50,000-volt electric static field recharge the body at the cellular level
- Ammortal
- Ozone therapy, PEMF, infrared, sound therapy — kind of all-in-one
- BrainTap
- Uses light and sound to put your brain into different states
- Tim likes to use it in a hyperbaric chamber
- Ben’s thoughts on BrainTap
- Using BrainTap while in a hyperbaric chamber shifts Ben into a hypnotic state
- He has his 20 favorite sessions downloaded and can use them anywhere
- Favorite protocols are 40–60 minutes long
- Ben has 6 tracks on BrainTap, most are of a spiritual nature
- Ben recorded some sessions for the Breath Source app
-The explosion of breathwork…14:16
- Ben’s sons are going to Europe after graduation — Ben will meet with them in Germany
- Kitaro Waga
- Ben and his sons are going to do a Wim Hof breathing course with Kitaro
- Othership
- Pranayama Breath of Fire channels on YouTube
- Kitaro Waga's YouTube channel
- Kitaro's Instagram
-Methylene blue and underwater breath holds…17:28
- Tim practices breath holds for underwater swimming
- 50mg methylene blue helped to almost double his time underwater
- Methylene blue is a selective antioxidant but also acts as a pro-oxidant
- Suppresses the formation of some reactive oxygen species
- Molecular hydrogen works similarly
- Methylene blue activates the cytochrome c oxidase pathway — essential for generating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of cells
- Increase ATP production in response to photons of light, oxygen, and even radiation from PEMF
- You can hold your breath longer because you need less oxygen for ATP production
- Ben never pushes himself further than 80% of what he can do for a breathhold
- The danger of shallow water blackout
-Mitohormesis…20:48
- Mitohormesis — a biological concept where mild stress to mitochondria triggers adaptive responses that enhance cellular health and longevity
- Mitochondrial free radical theory of aging
- Reactive oxygen species can cause cellular and DNA damage and accelerate aging
- Consumption of high amounts of antioxidants
- One of the proposed mechanisms to fight aging in the 70s
- Moderate levels of oxidative stress may promote longevity
- Activities that can induce hormetic responses in the body
- Exercise
- Heat
- Cold
- Breathwork
- Exercise with oxygen therapy (EWOT)
- Intermittent hypoxic training
- Hyperbaric therapy
- Sunlight
- Alcohol
- The idea of mitohormesis from mild oxidative stressors being a sublethal stressor
- What doesn't kill you makes you stronger type of effect
- Methylene blue and hydrogen are examples of antioxidants that do not limit mitohormesis
- Methylene blue is highly selective
- It goes to the cells that need it and avoids healthy cells
- Dentists don’t like methylene blue because small traces stay on the teeth
- Podcast with Dr. Ted Achacoso:
- Methylene blue troche (use code BEN to save 10%)
- BioBlue (use code BEN to save 10%)
- A form of methylene blue that bypasses liver digestion
- Podcast with Dr. Eniko Loud
- Tim gets his IV and capsules from a clinic in London — ivboost
- Too much of the oral form disrupts the oral microbiome
- Methylene blue therapy and ozone therapy should not be overdone
- Dr. John Lieurance's protocol for methylene blue
- 4 to 5 days on, 2 to 3 days off
- Ben does ozone mouthwashing every morning for 2 to 3 minutes
- Simply O3 ozonated pulling oil (use code BEN10 to save 10%)
-Indian vs. Western microbiome…29:44
- Westerners in India get food poisoning, the so-called “Delhi Belly”
- Indians don’t get food poisoning in England
- Their microbiome must be significantly better
- The microbiome of the Indian population is more diverse
- Compared to those on a standardized Western diet
- Due to the high intake of plants, legumes, a lot of fermentable carbohydrates
- It's hard to get enough protein and calories from plants
- Ben's Gutbio analysis (pre- and post-gut test) after his trip to India in 2020:
- What Happens To An American Gut Microbiome After 12 Days Of Eating & Living In India?
- The test showed his microbial diversity went through the roof
- At the same time, had a lot more gas and bloating
- Colostrum
- Podcast with Shiva Subramanian:
-Problems with FODMAP foods…32:49
- Tim bloats after he eats artichoke
- Ben avoids foods like wheat, apples, garlic, onions, artichoke, resistant starches, inulin
- A lot of people have a genetic predisposition for hydrogen or methane production in response to FODMAP foods
- Always struggling with fermentable carbohydrates
- If your biome is genetically hardwired like that, the best thing is to avoid FODMAPS food
- Vitract (use code BEN10 to save 10%)
- A gut testing company
- Ben’s microbial diversity is very high
- He consumes:
- Homemade yogurt and kefir
- Sauerkraut and kimchi
- Small amounts of kombucha
- Sprouts and microgreens
- Sweeteners are sometimes just as much of an issue as fermentable carbohydrates
- Q&A 468: Can Cardio Grow Muscle, The Dark Side Of Microdosing Psychedelics, Gluten Free Vs. Low-FODMAP & More!
-Ben’s beauty protocol…37:07
- Ben has been a fan of colostrum for a while
- The intake of colostrum before exercise in heat reduces gut permeability
- Kion Colostrum
- Powder is a better way to supplement colostrum than capsules
- Mt. Capra
- Ben's interview with Joe Stout:
- Alitura clay mask (use code GREENFIELD to save 20%)
- Has different types of clay, plus four-hour post-milk colostrum
- Part of Ben’s weekly beauty protocol
- Podcast with Andy Hnilo of Alitura:
- Colostrum has a beneficial effect on the skin — healing, on scars, on collagen and elastin formation
- Qure LED light therapy mask
- GHK-Cu serum
-The use of peptides…42:40
- Not a lot of peptides are absorbed transdermally
- GHK-Cu peptide is the one that is beneficial for the skin
- Can be applied topically or transdermally
- Just like applying topical magnesium on a joint
- Oral bioavailable peptides
- Limitless Life Nootropics (use code BEN to save 15%)
- LVLUP Health (use code BEN to save 10%)
- 5-Amino-1MQ Performance Peptide (use code BEN to save 15%)
- BPC-157
- KPV
- Ben's Ultimate Peptides Resources
- Podcast with Ryan Smith:
-Ben’s ad for his Spokane house…44:21
-What peptides are…46:00
- Molecules containing two or more amino acids connected together
- Insulin is probably the most well-known peptide
- Glucagon-like peptides are used as hunger suppressors like Ozempic
- Not without risks
- Other ways to suppress hunger:
- Drinkable ketones
- Calocurb (use code BEN10 to save 10%)
- Pendulum GLP-1 probiotic with akkermansia (use code GREENFIELD to save 20%)
- Peptides that work on different parts of the body
- Peptide bioregulators for the pineal gland, thyroid, and gonads for testosterone production
- Ben's Ultimate Peptides Resources
- Peptides Cheat Sheet
- Jack Allocca
-Guests at the Health Optimisation Summit 2024…51:15
- Steven Gundry
- JJ Virgin
- Sadia Khan
- Calley Means
- Gary Brecka
- Intriguing indicators for shorter or longer lifespan:
- Bad or no relationships — 50% lower life expectancy
- Higher cholesterol — longer life
- Statins — shorter life
-The number one personal upgrade for 2024…54:58
- For Tim, healing childhood trauma
- Until you heal, a lot of bad patterns that can damage relationships and health will keep showing up
- Tim is doing cognitive hypnotherapy and ketamine therapy
- Journaling and writing to process trauma
- Dr. Andrew Huberman: A Science-Supported Journaling Protocol to Improve Mental & Physical Health
- Ben processes well when writing — he has an open document on his computer to write out the problems he encounters
- Gratitude
- Listing problems and solutions
- The Power of Ownership by Justin Roethlingshoefer
- Sits in silence for 30 minutes every morning
- Ben spends 5 minutes doing this in the morning
-The benefits of microdosing alcohol…1:01:53
- A small dose of alcohol induces a hormetic response
- Just like a reasonable dose of exercise, heat, cold, wild plants, herbs, bitters, spices, radiation, etc.
- Solosode 471: Why Ben Greenfield Drinks One Serving Of Alcohol Per Day, The Effects Of Alcohol On Longevity, How To Detox After Partying, The Best Supplements For Drinking & Much More
- Ben typically has
- A glass of organic wine
- Clean mescal, tequila, gin, or vodka with soda water and lemon juice
- He also drinks ketone drinks
- KetoneAid (code BEN auto-applied for free shipping up to $20)
- For any acetaldehyde that might be left over in the liver
- Glutathione (use code BEN10 to save 10%)
- ZBiotics (use code BEN to save 15%)
- Dihydromyricetin (DHM) (use code BEN to save 10%)
- No risk of mortality with one to two drinks a day — there even may be cardiovascular benefits
- Hinnao Glutathione
- Transdermal is the best form
- Liposomal is a second-best form
- Glutaryl Glutathione Spray (use code BEN10 to save 10%)
-And much more…
Upcoming Events:
- Health Optimization Summit — London: June 15–16, 2024
The Health Optimization Summit is the ultimate gathering for anyone passionate about biohacking, wellness, and living their best life. Dubbed a must-do event, it promises a transformative weekend filled with the opportunity to meet and learn from over 35 world-class speakers (including yours truly) in nutrition, longevity, mental health, relationships, and more. Learn best-kept secrets, try out the latest high-tech health gadgets, and discover the cleanest supplements and foods on the market. Don't miss this life-changing weekend — grab your tickets before they're gone here.
- The Longevity Circle Retreat in Croatia — Superyacht Wellness Adventure: Sept 4–10, 2024
Step aboard the ultimate luxury wellness journey: the longevity-focused Superyacht Wellness Adventure, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Croatia from September 4–10, 2024. This exclusive, invite-only event offers an unparalleled experience that blends opulence with the pursuit of wellness, disease prevention, and a long, happy life. With only 10 cabins available, this intimate retreat promises personalized attention and an atmosphere of elite exclusivity. Each day, I will lead 5–6 invigorating workouts, share insights through 1–2 enlightening talks, and engage in organic discussions and Q&A sessions, ensuring a transformative experience. Secure your spot here on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure and be part of a select group dedicated to elevating their health.
- Biohacking Retreat with Ben Greenfield — Costa Rica: Oct 28–31, 2024
Join me this October for an unparalleled biohacking retreat set in the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica. This is an exclusive opportunity to dive deep into the world of biohacking, wellness, and personal optimization at Kinkára, a sanctuary of rejuvenation and adventure. Over three nights, you'll get to explore cutting-edge strategies for enhancing your health and performance, from engaging lectures to hands-on meditation and breathwork sessions. We'll bond over group hikes, savor three meticulously prepared meals daily, unwind with live music, and experience the transformative Temezcal ceremony. Plus, you'll enjoy luxury amenities and quality time with me and a community of like-minded individuals. Space is intentionally limited to 50 guests to ensure a personalized and impactful experience. Don't miss this chance to elevate your well-being and connect with the essence of biohacking amidst Costa Rica's natural beauty. Secure your spot here to ensure you don't miss out!
- Keep up on Ben's LIVE appearances by following bengreenfieldfitness.com/calendar!
Click here for the full written transcript of this podcast episode.
Resources from this episode:
– Tim Gray:
- Health Optimisation Summit 2024
- Health Optimisation Podcast
- Biohacker London Meetup
- The Latest New Health Gadgets You’ve Never Heard Of, The Intersection of AI & Biohacking, Miracle Mornings & Much More With Tim Gray.
- How UK’s Leading Biohacker Eats, Drinks, & Optimizes His Life: An Interview With Tim Gray.
– Podcasts and Articles:
- Crazy Prostate Injections, Skull-Cracking Nasal Adjustments, Defying Disease, Revitalizing Cells, And Safeguarding Your Sexuality With Dr. John Lieurance
- An Interview With “The Smartest Physician On The Planet”: Crazy Biohacking Stacks For Cognitive Function, Microdosing CBD, The Rolls Royce Of Jet Lag Hacking & Much More.
- The Exciting Future Of Holistic Dentistry (& How Ben Greenfield Is Re-Inventing His Mouth!) With Dr. Eniko Loud.
- What Happens To An American Gut Microbiome After 12 Days Of Eating & Living In India?
- Biohacking Fitness In Asia & Beyond: How One Small Company Is Changing The Face Of Biomarker Testing, Agriculture, Pollution, Health & More!
- Q&A 468: Can Cardio Grow Muscle, The Dark Side Of Microdosing Psychedelics, Gluten Free Vs. Low-FODMAP & More!
- Episode #144: Everything You Need to Know About The Link Between Performance, Fat Loss and Goat Colostrum
- Insider Beauty Secrets For Men, Can You Eat Your Skin Care Products, How & Why To Smear Grass-Fed Colostrum On Your Face & Much More With Andy Hnilo Of Alitura.
- Is This The Most Advanced Anti-Aging Analysis & Epigenetic Diagnostic Test Of The Future?
- Solosode 471: Why Ben Greenfield Drinks One Serving Of Alcohol Per Day, The Effects Of Alcohol On Longevity, How To Detox After Partying, The Best Supplements For Drinking & Much More
– Books:
– Other Resources:
- Methylene Blue
- Methylene Blue Troche (use code BEN to save 10%)
- BioBlue (use code BEN to save 10%)
- Simply O3 Ozonated Pulling Oil (use code BEN10 to save 10%)
- Kion Colostrum
- Mt. Capra
- Alitura Clay Mask (use code GREENFIELD to save 20%)
- Qure LED Light Therapy Mask
- GHK-Cu Serum
- GHK-Cu Peptide
- Ancient Minerals Topical Magnesium
- Limitless Life Nootropics (use code BEN to save 15%)
- LVLUP Health (use code BEN to save 10%)
- 5-Amino-1MQ Performance Peptide (use code BEN to save 15%)
- Ketone IQ
- Calocurb (use code BEN10 to save 10%)
- Pendulum GLP-1 Probiotic with Akkermansia (use code GREENFIELD to save 20%)
- Dry Farms Wine
- KetoneAid (code BEN auto-applied for free shipping up to $20)
- Glutathione (use code BEN10 to save 10%)
- ZBiotics (use code BEN to save 15%)
- Dihydromyricetin (DHM) (use code BEN to save 10%)
- Hinnao Glutathione
- Glutaryl Glutathione Spray (use code BEN10 to save 10%)
- Human Regenerator
- Ammortal
- BrainTap
- HBOT
- Breath Source
- Othership
- Vitract (use code BEN10 to save 10%)
- Ozone Generator
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Do you have questions, thoughts, or feedback for Tim Gray or me? Leave your comments below and one of us will reply!
Hey Ben. I’ve have a brain injury (nearly fully recovered) and am looking to improve function. Is c60 or methylene blue a better choice?? or Both?? Thanks!
P.S. I’m a health professional and know some of the people that you do as well!!