Biohacker Spending $2 Million A Year To Cheat Death Says This Pantry Staple Beats Ozempic

Think about the last time you tried a new diet hack or wellness trend. Chances are you were looking for something simple, affordable, and, most importantly, effective.

In a world full of expensive supplements, fancy gadgets, and celebrity endorsements, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the “secret” solutions. That makes Bryan Johnson’s claim so intriguing: the answer to better weight management might already be sitting on your kitchen shelf.

Bryan Johnson isn’t your typical health guru. He’s a self-described biohacker who spends roughly $2 million yearly on protocols to slow aging and maximize longevity.

He’s invested in cutting-edge therapies, from cold plunges and heat exposure to advanced supplements. But Johnson revealed a surprising insight on a recent episode of Derek Munro’s More Plates, More Dates podcast. He suggested that one everyday pantry staple, extra virgin olive oil, could outpace even blockbuster weight-loss drugs.

Ozempic, formally approved by the FDA in 2017 for adults with type 2 diabetes, has earned a reputation in popular culture for its off-label use in weight loss. Celebrities and influencers have publicly credited the injectable medication with helping them shed pounds. However, Johnson argues there’s an easier, more natural option that does a better job at a fraction of the cost.

"Olive Oil Is "Better Than Ozempic"

During the podcast, Munro reminded Johnson of his earlier interview with Steven Bartlett on The Diary of a CEO. Johnson quipped that extra virgin olive oil was “better than Ozempic” for weight loss.

Johnson laughed and clarified his intention: “I said extra virgin olive oil is better than NR [Nicotinamide Riboside], cold plunge, heat therapy, your favorite podcast, and something else… so I was being cheeky.” But cheek aside, he wasn’t just tossing out an offhand remark. He backed it up with evidence.

The Power of Whole Foods

Nutrition experts emphasize the importance of whole foods in maintaining overall health. Dr. Mark Hyman notes that foods like beans, lentils, and certain spices are not only affordable but also packed with nutrients that can enhance metabolic health.

He suggests that incorporating these pantry staples can be a game-changer, especially for those seeking to manage weight effectively without resorting to expensive medications like Ozempic. Regular consumption of such foods can lead to sustainable health benefits and better weight management.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Johnson pointed to a clinical study showing that people who consumed olive oil daily for nine weeks lost, on average, 2.4 pounds more than those who didn’t. The study also reported modest reductions in blood pressure among the olive oil group.

While 2.4 pounds over two months might not sound earth-shattering, it’s a measurable change, and it comes from swapping in a wholesome food rather than adding another synthetic compound to your regimen.

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He’s certainly not alone in praising olive oil. Television host Ryan Seacrest has mentioned taking a daily shot of olive oil for weight management.

The idea has turned heads, in part because it’s so simple. All you need is a quality bottle of extra virgin olive oil and the resolve to take that daily tablespoon or drizzle it generously over salads, vegetables, or whole grains.

Nutrition experts are on board, too. Abigail Roberts, a sports nutritionist at Bulk.com, told GloucestershireLive that extra virgin olive oil ranks among the biggest “superfoods” out there. Roberts explains, “Olive oil helps you lose weight because it’s rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. These fats boost metabolism, reduce appetite, and help lower body fat.”

Bryan Johnson Explains Why This Everyday Pantry Staple Ranks Among “The Most Powerful Whole-Body Foods”

Digging deeper into the research, several studies have pitted an EVOO-enriched diet against standard diets. One trial found that participants who added extra virgin olive oil to their meals lost 80 percent more body fat than those who didn’t include it.

Over the long term, the benefits appear to stick; people maintain their weight loss more effectively when they keep EVOO in their routine.

Why does it work? Monounsaturated fats, the primary kind found in EVOO, support healthy insulin sensitivity. They help your cells use blood sugar more efficiently, meaning less sugar is stored as fat.

These fats also promote satiety. When you feel full longer, you’re less likely to reach for calorie-dense snacks later in the day. Additionally, EVOO contains polyphenols, antioxidant compounds that reduce inflammation, which has been linked to weight gain and metabolic issues.

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Johnson’s point isn’t that you should toss out your exercise plan or ignore other healthy habits. Instead, he’s highlighting an accessible tool anyone can use immediately. While not as glamorous as an injectable drug or a futuristic gadget, extra virgin olive oil brings decades of Mediterranean-diet research to your table.

To try Johnson’s approach, start with one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil each morning. You can shoot it straight, mix it into a smoothie, or drizzle it over breakfast eggs.

From there, look for opportunities to swap olive oil for less healthy fats, replace butter on toast, choose EVOO-based dressings, and roast vegetables in olive oil instead of vegetable oil sprays.

Biohacker flair aside, Johnson’s suggestion boils down to common sense: lean into whole, nutrient-dense foods that help your body work better. Extra virgin olive oil is shelf-stable, affordable, and backed by solid science.

It won’t deliver overnight miracles, but it can become a powerful part of your weight-management toolkit over time. And in the battle of pantry staples versus pricey medications, EVOO might be the underdog that upends the playbook.

Behavioral Insights into Dietary Choices

Behavioral psychologists often highlight the psychological factors influencing food choices. According to Dr. Kelly McGonigal, understanding the motivations behind our food decisions can lead to healthier habits.

She recommends mindfulness practices as a powerful tool to help individuals become more aware of their cravings and emotional triggers. By fostering a deeper connection with food, people can make more informed choices, leading to better health outcomes. Implementing these strategies can transform how we interact with the food we consume daily.

In conclusion, the insights from nutrition and behavioral experts underline the potential of everyday foods to support health and weight management. Dr. T. Colin Campbell emphasizes that a plant-based diet rich in whole foods promotes not just weight loss but overall wellness.

By integrating expert-recommended practices like mindfulness and prioritizing whole foods, individuals can take significant steps towards better health. The key lies in making informed choices that align with sustainable health goals, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling lifestyle.