Millionaire Biohacker Trying To ‘Live Forever’ Admits Major Mistake In Anti-Aging Quest

Bryan Johnson, the millionaire biohacker known for his extreme dedication to slowing the aging process, has revealed a significant mistake he and his team made in their pursuit of longevity. In a recent video posted to his YouTube channel, Johnson explained how one element of his regimen may have been working against him, and he now questions whether it could lead to lasting harm.

Johnson has become a well-known figure in the world of biohacking, thanks in part to his eye-popping investment in his health. Reports suggest he spends around $2 million each year on a wide range of procedures, treatments, and technologies designed to reverse his biological age.

To put his commitment into perspective, Johnson has experimented with gene editing and previously underwent blood plasma transfusions using his 19-year-old son's blood. He has since moved on to a more advanced procedure called total plasma exchange, which replaces his blood, plasma, and other components with those of a young donor.

His routine also includes a strict schedule of supplements and pharmaceutical drugs. However, in his latest video, Johnson acknowledged that one drug in particular, rapamycin, may have actually hindered his efforts. After taking it for years as part of his anti-aging strategy, he now believes it might have slowed his progress instead of supporting it.

This realization has caused Johnson to rethink aspects of his protocol and serves as a reminder of the complex and often unpredictable nature of experimenting with the human body in the name of longevity. Despite the high cost and cutting-edge science involved, even the most well-funded efforts can still face setbacks.

Bryan Johnson reflected on the effects rapamycin had on him after years of use.

YouTube/Bryan Johnson

The drug is commonly prescribed to treat illnesses such as cancer and certain lung conditions, but it has also gained attention for its potential anti-aging properties.

Bryan Johnson noted that rapamycin has been widely used in organ transplant patients because of its ability to suppress the immune system. This effect helps reduce the body’s natural tendency to reject a transplanted organ.

He began taking the drug after reviewing earlier research that suggested its benefits could outweigh the risks. One notable study from 2009 found that when administered to mice, rapamycin appeared to extend lifespan by 14 percent in females and 9 percent in males. This led many in the longevity field to consider its possible applications for humans.

Lessons from Biohacking

The story of Bryan Johnson is a powerful case study in the biohacking community, where experts like Dr. Ben Greenfield, a well-known biohacker, often emphasize the importance of balanced approaches to health. Greenfield advocates for personalized health strategies that prioritize safety and sustainability over extreme measures.

He warns that while the pursuit of longevity can be enticing, making drastic changes without thorough research can lead to unintended consequences. Johnson's experience serves as a reminder that moderation is essential to any health regimen.

Johnson began to experience several adverse effects of rapamycin.

Mark Abramson/For The Washington Post

A 2023 study involving 333 individuals taking rapamycin under medical supervision found that 65.5% believed the drug had effective anti-aging properties, while 44% reported improvements in their overall health.

In Johnson’s case, however, the results were far less encouraging. He explained that he had taken the drug for five years, frequently adjusting the dosage in an effort to maximize the benefits while avoiding the side effects. Despite this, he ultimately noticed no meaningful improvements in his health.

Instead, Johnson began to experience several negative effects. These included “cankers in his mouth, a wound that wouldn't heal fast enough, [his] blood report showed he had cholesterol disruptions, and his blood glucose levels spiked a little bit.”

He went on to share a side effect that hit particularly hard, saying, “Then perhaps the thing that was most painful for me was that it increased my resting heart rate, which, as you know, is the most important biomarker I track every single day because it is the most influential factor determining my sleep quality.”

Watch the video:

Commenting on a recent study published last year, Bryan Johnson acknowledged that its findings directly contradicted earlier research. Conducted by Yale scientists, the study revealed that rapamycin may actually accelerate biological aging in humans rather than slow it down. The researchers observed this effect across 16 different epigenetic markers, raising serious questions about the drug’s use as an anti-aging treatment.

In light of these findings, Johnson recognized the troubling possibility that he may have been unintentionally speeding up his aging process instead of reversing it.

He ended the video by emphasizing the importance of experimentation, transparency, and open dialogue. For Johnson, sharing both the successes and failures of his longevity efforts is key to helping others learn and push the boundaries of what’s possible in human health and aging.

Experts in the field of aging, like Dr. David Perlmutter, emphasize that the journey toward anti-aging should incorporate holistic practices. He suggests combining nutrition, exercise, and mindfulness to create a well-rounded lifestyle. For instance, focusing on a plant-based diet rich in antioxidants can support cellular health.

Additionally, Dr. Perlmutter recommends regular health check-ups to monitor potential side effects of any extreme interventions. This proactive approach allows individuals to adjust their strategies, ensuring they contribute positively to their long-term health.

Research-Based Understanding

The narrative around Bryan Johnson’s experiences highlights the fine line between innovation and caution in the quest for longevity. Experts like Dr. Michele Gelfand note that cultural and social influences can significantly impact our health choices, emphasizing the importance of community support in lifestyle changes.

Understanding the psychological and physiological aspects of aging is crucial. By embracing a balanced approach and listening to credible experts, individuals can navigate the complexities of health and wellness in their pursuit of a longer life.