Health And Longevity Supplements
I experimented with BPC-157, MK-677, NMN, Tongkat Ali, in addition to my current stack and these were the results
I previously wrote a guide on Clinic Visits and Diagnostic Services in Mexico.
Considering how easy it is to get medical services in Mexico, I decided to experiment with multiple longevity, health, and testosterone supplements while in the country. As a military vet, my body already has an abnormal amount of wear and tear. I was fortunate enough to not have any issues in my bloodwork, but I decided to run these experiments on myself and present my info here.
You can find hundreds of posts on Twitter and other platforms talking about supplements, but very few go into detail. Here are a couple of examples. I have taken bits and pieces of info from tweets like these, along with doing a lot of my own research.
BowtiedPassport - New Cum Holy Grail
BowTied Neuron - BPC-157
BowTied Biohacker - How To Do TRT Properly ( I am not on TRT, but there are many supplements that I have looked into on test and adrenals)
MitoPapi - Methelyne Blue
Over a 47-day period between blood tests, I:
- Decreased my cholesterol by 20 percent
- Decreased my liver enzymes by nearly 50 percent
- Increased my free testosterone by 46 percent (very odd - might be temporary)
Not all of these improvements are supplement-based. I have switched to a much heavier exercise plan, which I started before my previous trip to Nicaragua. I was essentially “training” for some long-range hiking trips, rock climbing, etc. This article is not only a results document but also explains the specific reasons, backed by research (links included), for why I did certain things.
First off, Mhy stack. For each supplement, I will give my reasoning and finding
* I am not sponsored by any of these companies - The links simply go to Amazon
Morning (with yogurt or breakfast):
Pre-Workout (30-45 minutes before the gym):
Tadalafil (5mg) (Cheap and OTC in Mexico)
Pre-workout powder ( Your Choice)
Post-Workout (with protein shake):
Evening (with dinner):
Zinc (quarter pill)
Atorvastatin
Pygeum - 1 pill
NeuroSleep
Non-Workout Days (before bed):
Metformin (500mg) – Half pill in the morning on rest days
The experiment started after I hurt my back in the gym. I’m not exactly sure what happened, but on the way up from a squat, something tore. I instantly felt nauseous and it took me twice the usual amount of time to walk home. I couldn't sit, and once I laid down, I could barely lift my body up without sharp pain. Instead of just hopping on painkillers, I consulted some medical friends and used Citrulline.
Citrulline is an amino acid that has several important roles in the body. Here are some key benefits and functions of citrulline:
Improves Exercise Performance: Citrulline helps to increase nitric oxide production in the body, which can improve blood flow to muscles during exercise. This can enhance endurance and reduce fatigue, allowing for better performance during workouts.
Reduces Muscle Soreness: By increasing nitric oxide levels, citrulline can help reduce muscle soreness following intense exercise. This can improve recovery times and overall workout efficiency.
Boosts Heart Health: Enhanced nitric oxide production from citrulline supplementation can improve cardiovascular health by relaxing blood vessels, reducing blood pressure, and improving blood flow.
Supports Protein Synthesis: Citrulline can aid in the removal of ammonia from the body, which is a byproduct of protein metabolism. This helps in maintaining proper nitrogen balance, which is crucial for protein synthesis and muscle growth.
Enhances Erection Hardness: Due to its effects on blood flow, citrulline is also used as a supplement to help with erectile dysfunction. It can help improve erection hardness by increasing blood flow to the penile tissues.
Improves Overall Well-being: The increased blood flow and better circulation can contribute to overall energy levels and well-being, making citrulline a beneficial supplement for general health.
In the past, you likely saw many people recommend L-Arginine. However, L-Citrulline has better bioavailability and absorption than L-Arginine. It isn’t broken down as quickly in the digestive system. Additionally, it benefits from increasing blood flow and oxygen to muscles.
When it came to increasing blood flow to the injured area, Citrulline sped up the process significantly.
Supplemental Citrulline Is More Efficient Than Arginine in Increasing Systemic Arginine Availability in Mice
Secondly, there are two versions of this supplement. There is pure L-Citrulline and Citrulline Malate (Citrulline combined with Malic Acid). My recommendation is to use pure L-Citrulline. Why? Yes, there are studies that say Citrulline Malate can give an additional boost in exercise.
A critical review of citrulline malate supplementation and exercise performance
The problem I found is that Citrulline Malate should be a bonded ingredient. It is very hard to find a 1:1 Citrulline Malate compound. Instead, you often find 2:1 mixes, which are simply the two ingredients mixed together.
There is no solid study that explains any benefit of this, and I theorize that supplement companies have simply found a way to save money by giving you less of the pure ingredient.
At this point, I figured, what else can we test out to optimize?
Surprisingly by bloodtest came back normal. The only possible issued were slightly elevated cholesterol. Testorone was in normal range. I’ve never had any problems there. * I personally believe Mexico sun and big booty Latinas help out, but For the same of experimenting I decided to try new things.
Tongkat Ali
Functions:
Hormone Balance: Tongkat Ali is known to support healthy testosterone levels, enhancing libido and overall hormonal balance.
Energy and Stamina: It improves energy levels, stamina, and physical performance.
Stress Reduction: Tongkat Ali has adaptogenic properties, helping to reduce stress and improve mood.
Why Take Tongkat Ali: So far, Tongkat seems to be the only thing that moves the needle in both active and relatively inactive people.
After trying a couple brands. Nootropics Depot seems to be the absolute best that you can easily get. Being in Mexico - I typically have to wait till a friend visits, Send them a 3 month supply because you can easily get it in mexico.
Vitamin D and K2
Functions:
Calcium Absorption: Vitamin D is essential for the efficient absorption of calcium in the intestines, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth (NCBI).
Bone Health: By facilitating calcium absorption, Vitamin D helps in the formation and maintenance of healthy bones and prevents conditions like rickets in children and osteomalacia or osteoporosis in adults .
Immune System Support: Vitamin D enhances the pathogen-fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages, important components of the immune system, and decreases inflammation .
Mood and Mental Health: Adequate levels of Vitamin D are associated with improved mood and may reduce the risk of depression .
I noticed a lot of people mention Vitamin D - The majority of us “first worlders” live indoors. the majority of us expats, travelers, nomad work online which means we arent in the fields collecting sunlight.
Many people have vitamin D deficiencies and try to solve it with supplements. The problem is.. Vitamin D isn’t the only thing neededWhy Take Vitamin K2 with Vitamin D
Optimal Calcium Utilization: Vitamin D increases calcium absorption from the gut, but without Vitamin K2, calcium may not be properly directed to bones and can be deposited in the arteries and other soft tissues. Vitamin K2 activates proteins like osteocalcin and matrix GLA protein (MGP) that help in directing calcium to where it is needed (bones) and away from where it could be harmful (arteries) .
Bone Health: Vitamin K2 works with Vitamin D to promote bone mineralization. This ensures that the calcium absorbed by the body is effectively used in building and maintaining strong bones .
Cardiovascular Health: Vitamin K2 helps prevent arterial calcification, which can occur if calcium is deposited in the arteries. This helps in maintaining cardiovascular health by keeping the arteries flexible and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Dose: 125Mcg D3 90mcg K2
NMN
Functions:
Energy Production: NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) is a precursor to NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide), a coenzyme essential for energy production in cells. It supports mitochondrial function and helps maintain cellular energy levels.
DNA Repair: NAD+ is vital for the activity of sirtuins, enzymes that play a crucial role in DNA repair and maintenance, which can contribute to longevity and healthy aging.
Metabolic Health: NMN supplementation can improve insulin sensitivity and promote healthy metabolic function, potentially aiding in weight management and reducing the risk of metabolic disorders.
Neuroprotection: NMN has been shown to have neuroprotective effects, supporting brain health and cognitive function by maintaining neuronal energy balance and reducing oxidative stress.
Why Take NMN: I’ve read/watch a lot of media from David Sinclair. He has talked about NMN in multiple podcast along with his book LifeSpan. There doesn't seem to be any downsides and I do feel an energy boost from it.
Functions:
Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, are known to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease triglycerides, contributing to cardiovascular health.
Brain Function: DHA is a critical component of brain cell membranes, supporting cognitive function, memory, and overall brain health.
Joint Health: Omega-3s possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain and stiffness associated with conditions like arthritis.
Eye Health: DHA is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the retina, supporting overall eye health and vision.
Why Take Omega 3: Omega-3 aren’t produces by our own bodies. Even with a decent diet, this is a supplement that’s lacking. I’m mainly interested in the joint and heart health considering I’m either in the gym or trying to walk long distances
Functions:
Energy Production: B vitamins play a crucial role in converting food into energy, supporting metabolism and reducing fatigue.
Brain Health: B vitamins, especially B6, B9 (folate), and B12, are essential for brain function, cognitive performance, and mental health.
Red Blood Cell Formation: B vitamins, particularly B12 and folate, are important for the production and maintenance of healthy red blood cells.
Skin and Hair Health: B vitamins support healthy skin, hair, and nails by promoting cell regeneration and reducing oxidative stress.
Why Take Vitamin B Complex: Extremely cheap to buy a B complex. I see no reason not to take it
Functions:
Prostate Health: Pygeum extract is commonly used to support prostate health and alleviate symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), such as urinary difficulties.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Pygeum contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
Antioxidant Effects: The extract has antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage.
Why Take Pygeum:
Simply put.. helps you bust a fatter load.
BowtiedPassport - New Cum Holy Grail
Functions:
Hormone Balance: DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a precursor to male and female sex hormones, including testosterone and estrogen, helping to maintain hormonal balance.
Energy and Mood: DHEA can enhance energy levels, improve mood, and reduce symptoms of depression.
Bone Density: DHEA supplementation has been shown to support bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Why Take DHEA Blend: As we age, DHEA levels naturally decline, leading to imbalances that can affect energy, mood, and bone health. The one I take also includes, Dim, Ashwagangha, Boron, Pregnenolone and Zinc which also help in testosterone productions, relaxion and adrenal regulation.
Functions:
Antioxidant Support: NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is a precursor to glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage.
Liver Health: NAC supports liver function by aiding in detoxification processes and reducing liver inflammation.
Respiratory Health: NAC helps to thin mucus, making it easier to clear from the airways, thus supporting respiratory health.
Why Take NAC: Maintaining antioxidant levels is crucial for overall health, particularly in environments with varying air quality. NAC supports liver and respiratory health, which is beneficial for expats and nomads who may encounter different environmental stressors.
Functions:
Heart Health: Low-dose aspirin can help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke by preventing blood clots.
Anti-inflammatory: Aspirin has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with various conditions.
Pain Relief: It is effective for relieving mild to moderate pain, including headaches, muscle aches, and arthritis.
Why Take Aspirin: David Sinclair and other medical researching talk use aspirin as a way to promote cardiovascular health. Make sure you are taking a Coated Asprin as the goal is to prevent stomach ulcers and bleeding that can sometimes occur with regularaspirin use.
Tadalafil
Functions:
Improved Blood Flow: Tadalafil helps increase blood flow to particular areas of the body, primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction.
Physical Performance: By improving blood flow, Tadalafil can enhance physical performance and endurance during workouts.
Pulmonary Hypertension: It helps relax blood vessels in the lungs, improving exercise capacity in individuals with pulmonary hypertension.
Why Take Tadalafil: I use this in my preworkout stack. Gives great pumps without the jitter of many preworkout powers. I alternate and cyle between Tadalafil and pre work out either way so my body doesnt get dependent or too use to either.
Collagen
Functions:
Joint Health: Collagen helps maintain the integrity of cartilage, which is the rubber-like tissue that protects joints.
Skin Health: It supports skin elasticity and hydration, reducing wrinkles and promoting a youthful appearance.
Bone Strength: Collagen provides structure to bones, supporting bone density and strength.
Why Take Collagen: Collagen supplements are essential for maintaining joint health, skin vitality, and bone strength. For those constantly on the move, collagen helps keep their body resilient.
L-Carnitine Tartrate
Functions:
Fat Metabolism: L-Carnitine plays a crucial role in transporting fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production, aiding in fat metabolism.
Exercise Performance: It helps reduce muscle damage, soreness, and enhances recovery post-exercise.
Heart Health: L-Carnitine supports heart health by improving energy production and reducing oxidative stress in cardiac tissues.
Why Take L-Carnitine Tartrate: This is also something I take with my preworkout regimin. research said it aids in fat burning. Considering I live in Mexico and refuse to give up food. I don’t expect to drop to sub 10% body fat. but I can stay under 15 easily with the additional far burning.
Creatine
Functions:
Energy Production: Creatine helps regenerate ATP, the primary energy carrier in cells, enhancing high-intensity exercise performance.
Muscle Growth: It promotes muscle growth by increasing water content in muscle cells and supporting protein synthesis.
Brain Health: Creatine has neuroprotective properties and can improve cognitive function.
Why Take Creatine: Obvious reasons
Vitamin C
Functions:
Antioxidant Support: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage and supports the immune system.
Collagen Synthesis: It is essential for collagen production, supporting skin health, wound healing, and maintaining the integrity of tissues.
Iron Absorption: Vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-heme iron from plant-based foods, preventing iron deficiency.
Why Take Vitamin C: Vitamin C supports immune health, skin vitality, and iron absorption, making it a crucial supplement for maintaining overall health, especially when traveling.
Zinc
Functions:
Immune Support: Zinc plays a vital role in immune function, helping to fight off infections and support wound healing.
DNA Synthesis: It is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, supporting growth and development.
Skin Health: Zinc promotes healthy skin by reducing inflammation and supporting the production of new cells.
Why Take Zinc: Most Zinc seem to be overkill, the DHEA blend already has 50mg. I often don’t take zinc and when I do, I cut 100mg pills 4 ways and add it in when I feel like I need it or want it.
TUDCA
Functions:
Liver Health: TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid) supports liver function by promoting bile flow and reducing liver enzymes.
Cell Protection: It has cytoprotective properties, helping protect cells from damage and stress.
Digestive Health: TUDCA aids in the digestion and absorption of fats, supporting overall digestive health.
Why Take TUDCA: I often cycle between Tudca and NAC. Both of them do very similar thing. I often skip one or the other, but bloodwork shows that my liver enzymes are essentially perfect. If you’re gonna be taking a bunch of supplements, cycling any steroids, or drinking, your liver is often working overtime.
Atorvastatin - Experimentary
Functions:
Cholesterol Management: Atorvastatin helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Anti-inflammatory: It has anti-inflammatory effects that help protect the cardiovascular system.
Stroke Prevention: By managing cholesterol levels, Atorvastatin reduces the risk of stroke.
Why Take Atorvastatin: Again - After Reading a lot into David Sinclairs work + these items being cheap and over the counter in Mexico,I decided to add it to my stack.
In the coming months, I’ll see what affect its had on my bloodwork and decide if its worth keeping or not.
Dose: Standard dose seems to be 20mg. I cut them in half and take 10mg. Considering Im not at any high risk, but want to manage elevated levels, 10mg seems like a proper longevity dose
Functions:
Sleep Support: NeuroSleep contains ingredients that promote relaxation and support a healthy sleep cycle.
Stress Reduction: It helps reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to improved sleep quality.
Restoration: Quality sleep supports overall health, cognitive function, and physical recovery.
Why Take NeuroSleep: This blend is from amazon mexico, but i’m sure there’s something similar in the American market Magnesium Bisglycinate, Theanine, Apigenin, and SAM-e. My sleep schedule gets ruined messing with all these latinas. This seems to help manage it and I wake up more refreshed
MK-677 and BPC-157
* I have only been taking these for about 3 weeks. After about a month and a half, I will likely write an additional article to flesh out more findings
Functions:
Growth Hormone Stimulation: MK-677 stimulates the secretion of growth hormone, supporting muscle growth and recovery.
Bone Density: It helps improve bone density, reducing the risk of fractures.
Sleep Improvement: MK-677 promotes deep, restorative sleep, supporting overall health and well-being.
Why Take MK-677: I would like to hope it isn’t a placebo - but within days of taking this, my sleep drastically improved. I typically wake up around 7( not alarm clock) but often done go to sleep until 1. Even with a lack of sleep, taking MK-677 seems to put me in deep sleep much faster and I wake up much more freshed and less tired throughout the day, especially after long workouts.
Functions:
Tissue Repair: BPC-157 promotes the healing of various tissues, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Anti-inflammatory: It has anti-inflammatory properties that support overall joint and muscle health.
Gut Health: BPC-157 supports gut health by promoting the healing of the gastrointestinal tract.
Why Take BPC-157: Within two weeks I have 100% noticed much better gut health Especially considering I’m somtimes eating sketchy Mexican food. I also feel like better in general - I assume the gut health also helps with absorption of other supplements also zero soreness ( outside of leg day soreness from the gym. I am taking these as orals, so I haven’t seen any dramatic increase in healings. I currently take .5mg doses., but based on new tweet from BowTied Biohacker I am going to double the dosage and report back
Metformin (Non-Workout Days) Experimental
Functions:
Blood Sugar Control: Metformin helps regulate blood sugar levels, improving insulin sensitivity.
Weight Management: It supports weight management by reducing appetite and promoting fat loss.
Anti-aging: Metformin has been studied for its potential anti-aging effects, supporting overall health and longevity.
Why Take Metformin: * studies are showing that metformin impedes some of the benefits that you get from working out. So I take. half dose on the weekends when I take days off.
But apparently diabetics taking metformin are living longer than average people not taking so its worth looking into.
Data
One of the cheapest diabetes drugs on the market can also slow aging and extend your life span
Again - I will *cycle* this and see what the results are after more bloodtest
Dose: 250mg / Tab
I do not claim to be an expert researcher. If you want to completely destroy this article-Please do.
I fact I would like your feedback,experiences and additional recommendation.
Nothing in this document is medical advise. This is pure experimentation on my part. I suggest you do your own research.
Great guide!!!