Ben Greenfield 4 sources tracked
Biohacker, human performance coach, and podcaster focused on fitness, longevity, and self-optimization; host of the Ben Greenfield Life Podcast.
About Ben Greenfield →
Ben Greenfield is an American biohacker, human performance coach, author, and podcaster known for his work in fitness, longevity, nutrition, and self-optimization. He holds bachelor's and master's degrees in sports science and exercise physiology from the University of Idaho and was named NSCA Personal Trainer of the Year in 2008. He is a New York Times bestselling author of Beyond Training and has written Boundless and other books on biohacking, endurance, and wellness. A former competitive triathlete who has completed multiple Ironman races, Greenfield hosts the Ben Greenfield Life Podcast (also known as the Boundless Life Podcast) and is a co-founder of the supplement company Kion. He works as a coach and consultant on health, performance, and longevity for athletes, executives, and entrepreneurs.
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Organic (prompted) Alternative
Biomimetic peptide in topical serums that strengthens extracellular matrix proteins around hair follicles; has outperformed minoxidil in trials.
“outperformed topical minoxidil, and I think it is somewhat safer
BG▶ 12:40DosageTopical applicationCaveatsMore fringe and harder to find.Certaintyhedgedrecommendation -
In a protocol
Ben suggests listening to high-cadence (130+ BPM) aggressive music before lifting to enhance physiological arousal and neural drive.
“130 plus BPM is what's actually been supported in research
BG▶ 30:00Dosage130+ BPM musicCaveatsBen uses sparingly to avoid overtrainingCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted) In a protocol
Derma roller from Alitura that Ben uses for scalp/skin microneedling.
“the derma roller, I get mine from Alitura
BG▶ 20:40DosageOnce per week at ~1 mmCertaintypersonal onlypersonal use -
In a protocol
Ben mentions smelling salts/ammonia inhalants like Nose Torque as a way to acutely enhance arousal before heavy lifts.
“Ammonia inhalants, like smelling salts
BG▶ 30:30CaveatsDo not walk around smelling ammonia all the timeCertaintyhedgedoffhand mention -
Organic (prompted) In a protocol
Over-the-counter transdermal GHK copper peptide serum from Dr. Patel's Auro company, used by Ben.
“transdermal GHK copper peptide... company is called Auro
BG▶ 12:00Certaintypersonal onlypersonal use -
Organic (prompted)
Ayurvedic herb with strong human evidence for improving language, learning, and memory; acetylcholinesterase inhibitor.
“strongest human evidence base of any of the natural nootropics
BG▶ 27:40DosageConsistent use 8–12 weeks minimumCaveatsTakes weeks to feel effects.Certaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Sponsor read
Ben recommends Block Blue Light's flicker-free, low-EMF BioLight bulbs with day/evening/night modes for circadian-friendly home lighting.
“the most advanced light bulb on the face of the planet
BG▶ 38:00DosageThree modes—day/evening/night—toggled via light switchCertaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Sponsor read
Sponsor read for flicker-free low-EMF circadian lighting from BlockBlueLight with day/evening/night modes.
“100% flicker free... ultra low EMF
BG▶ 49:00DosageSwitch on/off to change between day/evening/night settingsCertaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Alternative
BFR training generates high lactate and may acutely improve cognitive acuity post-workout.
“blood flow restriction training
BG▶ 45:30Certaintypersonal onlypersonal use -
In a protocol
Ben endorses BFR training with cuffs/bands to enhance strength gains with light loads by trapping metabolic byproducts in muscle.
“BFR bands still, I think, underrated
BG▶ 24:00DosageExample: 4 sets per exercise of 30, 15, 15, 15 reps with 30 sec restCaveatsBen personally cuffs both arms and legs simultaneously but notes this is not advisedCertaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Organic (prompted)
Choline precursor that crosses blood-brain barrier and combines with DHA to build synaptic membranes.
“gasoline for the brain
BG▶ 35:30Dosage250–500 mg/day (note: speaker says mcg but likely mg)Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
In a protocol
Ben recommends a brief cold plunge (1-2 minutes) before lifting as a physiological arousal mechanism.
“hitting a cold plunge before you actually hit the gym
BG▶ 30:50Dosage1-2 minutes super cold water before liftingCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted) Alternative
Supports the dermal matrix that anchors hair follicles.
“collagen peptides or essential amino acids
BG▶ 23:50Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
In a protocol
Ben suggests 3-5 deep aggressive breaths before lifting to enhance physiological arousal.
“three to five deep aggressive breaths before you lift
BG▶ 30:50Dosage3-5 deep aggressive breathsCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted)
Plain creatine monohydrate (Creapure) at higher doses improves working memory, processing speed, and reduces mental fatigue.
“creatine improves working memory, processing speed, and reduces mental fatigue
BG▶ 26:50Dosage8+ g/day; 10 normal day, 15–20 g sleep-deprivedCertaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
In a protocol
Ben recommends focusing on the eccentric (lowering) phase of lifts with slower tempos or unilateral lowering to maximize strength and muscle gains.
“you are triggering more of the muscle fibers that can handle a heavier load
BG▶ 17:00DosageExample 2-second concentric, 4-second eccentric tempo; or lift bilaterally and lower unilaterallyCertaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Ben recommends ~15g of essential amino acids twice daily to preserve muscle, citing NASA bed rest research showing zero muscle loss over 28 days.
“15 grams of essential amino acids
BG▶ 45:50Dosage~15g twice per day; Ben uses ~30g/day (4 scoops pre-workout + 2 scoops evening)CaveatsRatios matter—look for adequate leucine and histidineCertaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Organic (prompted) In a protocol
Daily essential amino acid supplementation to support dermal matrix and protein needs.
“about 20 grams of essential amino acids on a daily basis
BG▶ 23:50Dosage~20 g/dayCertaintyexplicitpersonal use -
Organic (prompted)
Fish oil rich in EPA and DHA to support membrane fluidity and aging brain.
“fish oil that's rich in EPA and DHA
BG▶ 47:50Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted)
Modern hair transplant method considered gold standard for receding hairline; moves individual follicles leaving dot scars.
“modern FUE... is the gold standard for a receding hairline
BG▶ 6:02CaveatsDoes not stop progressive loss of native hair; underlying causes must still be addressed.Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted) In a protocol
Topical tripeptide applied after scalp microneedling to stimulate fibroblasts, promote blood vessel formation, and prevent follicle shrinking.
“one of the most well-researched hair peptides in existence
BG▶ 10:20DosageApply topically after dermarolling/microneedlingCertaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
In a protocol
Ben mentions Halo Sport tDCS device for cranial stimulation to recruit more motor units during training.
BG▶ 28:20Certaintyhedgedoffhand mention -
Sponsor read
Promotion of the Health Optimisation Summit in London, September 2026.
“one of the world's greatest biohacking events
BG▶ 38:00DosageSeptember 12-13, 2026; 10% off with code BENCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted) Alternative
HIIT may be as effective as zone 2 for cognitive benefits and saves time.
“high-intensity interval training is probably just as good as zone 2 cardio
BG▶ 46:40CaveatsExtrapolation from young adult studies.Certaintyhedgedrecommendation -
Sponsor read
Sponsor read for Hiya children's greens powder mixed with milk, 55+ whole food ingredients.
“chocolate milk Stuffed with veggies
BG▶ 22:00DosageOne scoop in milk/milk alternative; 50% off first order at hiyahealth.com/benCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Ben recommends subscribing to the NSCA's Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research for staying current on exercise science.
“I've subscribed to the... Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
BG▶ 14:00Certaintypersonal onlypersonal use -
Sponsor read
Sponsor read promoting digestive bitters capsule with 12 herbs to support digestion and GLP-1 production.
“12 science backed herbs in one tasteless capsule
BG▶ 1:00Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Sponsor read
Sponsor read promoting Just Thrive Probiotic as a clinically proven probiotic that survives to the gut to reduce bloat and improve digestion.
“the only probiotic clinically proven to drive 100% alive in your gut
BG▶ 0:32Caveats100% money back guaranteeCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Endorsement Alternative
Ben (co-owner) endorses Kion essential amino acids as having ratios closest to ideal for muscle protein synthesis.
“Kion is the best just because our ratios most closely mimic
BG▶ 46:30DosageScoop = ~5g; capsule = ~1gCaveatsBen is co-owner of Kion—conflict of interest disclosedCertaintypersonal onlystrong endorsement -
Organic (prompted)
Low-level laser therapy device for hair growth, held over an area for ~3 minutes.
“one company called Lima. We have one of their lasers
BG▶ 22:50Dosage~3 minutes per areaCertaintypersonal onlypersonal use -
Organic (prompted)
Mushroom extract that promotes nerve growth factor synthesis and may improve cognition in mild cognitive impairment.
“Lion's Mane can again help with cognitive function
BG▶ 31:40Dosage~1 g extract or 3 g dried; 8–16 weeksCaveatsTrial results are mixed.Certaintyhedgedrecommendation -
Organic (prompted)
Low-dose lithium supplementation supports BDNF and may inhibit GSK3-beta linked to Alzheimer's pathology.
“Lithium is catching a lot of attention
BG▶ 28:40Dosage~75 mg (Kaufman protocol); lower doses in Life Extension/Pure EncapsulationsCaveatsBen personally didn't notice much; high doses require prescription.Certaintyhedgedrecommendation -
Magnesium L-threonate may support formation of new synapses when paired with a learning task.
“magnesium L Threonate as something that seems to have some decent research
BG▶ 29:00Dosage140-150 mgCertaintyhedgedoffhand mention -
Organic (prompted)
Diet associated with slowing cognitive decline, partly due to omega/DHA intake.
“Mediterranean diet... associated with slowing cognitive decline
BG▶ 47:40Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted)
Use methylfolate (and B-complex) instead of folic acid if homocysteine is elevated, to support methylation and brain health.
“avoid folic acid and introduce compounds like methylfolate
BG▶ 45:30Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted) Alternative
Microneedling pen with depth more than 1 mm (ideally 1.0–1.8 mm) to reach scalp follicle stem cells; Dr. Pen derma stamp recommended.
“need to puncture the dermis where the hair follicle stem cell resides
BG▶ 19:30Dosage1.0–1.8 mm depth; once per weekCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Sponsor read
Sponsor read for Timeline's Mitopure urolithin A gummies for mitochondrial health, strength and endurance.
“each contain about 250mg of urolithin A
BG▶ 2:00Dosage4 gummies (~1000 mg urolithin A) for studied doseCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
In a protocol
Ben recommends visualizing forceful muscle contractions before sets to prime the nervous system and enhance strength gains.
“Close your eyes for 20, 30 seconds. Do vivid imagery of the lift
BG▶ 27:20Dosage20-30 seconds vivid internal imagery before each set; or 5 minutes per movement on off daysCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
In a protocol
Ben mentions Moxy Monitor NIRS muscle oxygenation device for real-time biofeedback during training.
BG▶ 32:50Certaintyexplicitoffhand mention -
Sponsor read
Sponsor read for MTE drink powder combining 13 nootropics and adaptogens with theacrine instead of caffeine.
“blended 13 carefully selected nootropics and adaptogens into this powder
DosageAdd to morning glass of water; 20% off with code BENG at getmte.comCertaintypersonal onlypersonal useCited in 2 episodes: How To Build A Better BRAIN (+ Ketamine, Nicotine, Alcohol & More!) With Dr. Tommy Wood · The Best Peptide & Supplement Stack For Hair Growth, Smart Drugs For An Aging Brain, "Aging Anxiety" & More! Solosode #499View per-episode variants ▸
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Organic (prompted)
Regenerative cell and exosome treatments combined with scalp microneedling to halt hair loss and stimulate follicle generation.
“mu cells, which are specialized regenerative cells... and exosomes
BG▶ 8:00DosageMicroneedling/scalp aggravation combined with topical applicationCaveatsNot widely available worldwide; requires a doctor.Certaintyhedgedrecommendation -
Organic (prompted)
EEG-guided neurofeedback headband used for napping, meditation, and sleep.
“I have a Muse headband
BG▶ 41:00Certaintypersonal onlypersonal use -
Organic (prompted)
Four-minute high-intensity efforts with four-minute recoveries, four times through, performed roughly every two weeks to maintain VO2 max.
“4x4 Norwegian protocol
BG▶ 16:40Dosage4 min hard / 4 min easy x 4, once every ~2 weeksCertaintyhedgedrecommendation -
Sponsor read
Himalayan shilajit gummies (250mg) for energy, mitochondrial function, and detox; engineered to taste good.
“Organifi Shilajit gummies do everything that Shilajit does
BG▶ 19:00Dosage250 mgCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Sponsor read
Ben recommends Our Place non-toxic kitchenware free from Teflon and forever chemicals.
“stop cooking with toxic cookware and upgrade to Our Place
BG▶ 20:40Certaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Organic (prompted)
Clinical-grade neurofeedback (Dr. Andrew Hill) to up- or down-regulate brain electrical activity in specific regions.
“clinical-grade neurofeedback
BG▶ 41:35Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Ben recommends pistachios as one of the highest antioxidant foods, beating blueberries, pomegranates, cherries, and beets.
“pistachios are among the highest antioxidant-containing foods
BG▶ 6:30Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Ben recommends 0.4 g/kg of protein per meal across at least 4 meals per day, totaling ~1.6 g/kg/day, to maximize muscle protein synthesis.
“0.4 grams per kilogram per meal across a minimum of four meals
BG▶ 43:00Dosage0.4 g/kg per meal x 4+ meals = ~1.6 g/kg/day (~0.8 g/lb)Certaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Sponsor read
Sponsor read for Qualia Stem Cell, a four-days-per-month supplement supporting natural stem cell pathways.
“four days of each month to support your body's natural stem cell pathways
BG▶ 50:00DosageFour days per monthCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Sponsor read
Sponsor read for Quantum Upgrade subscription claiming to mitigate EMF effects and boost ATP.
“documented a 29% increase in ATP production
BG▶ 3:00Dosage15-day free trial with code BEN15CaveatsSpeculative quantum-based claimsCertaintypersonal onlyrecommendation -
Sponsor read
Formula IQ's copper supplement paired with cofactors to support mitochondrial energy, iron balance, and metabolic health.
“copper paired with the cofactors the body actually uses to handle copper properly
BG▶ 0:48Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted) In a protocol
LED/laser red light helmet worn daily (~12 minutes) for hair growth.
“I wear a Red Light helmet... every morning
BG▶ 23:10Dosage12 minutes dailyCertaintypersonal onlypersonal use -
Alternative
Ben's personal afternoon protocol: 15-minute sauna into a cold plunge for endorphin rush and circulation before getting back to work.
“hit the cold right after I finish my sauna session
BG▶ 25:20Dosage15 min sauna then brief cold plunge after siestaCertaintypersonal onlypersonal use -
Organic (prompted)
5-alpha reductase inhibitor that helps lower DHT levels for hair loss caused by high DHT.
“saw palmetto at a range of about 300 or 400 milligrams per day
BG▶ 23:30Dosage300–400 mg/dayCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted) Alternative
12-ingredient topical serum (niacinamide, caffeine, Capilia Longa) to slow hair loss; used with their shampoo and conditioner.
“Scandinavian Biolabs has a product called the Biopiloxin Activation Serum
BG▶ 14:50DosageApply after dermarolling; use with shampoo and conditionerCaveatsMay slow loss more than stimulate new hair.Certaintyhedgedrecommendation -
Organic (prompted)
Get a sleep study or wear an overnight oxygen/heart-rate monitor; sleep apnea is the most underdiagnosed cause of cognitive decline in middle/older age.
“single most underdiagnosed cause of cognitive decline
BG▶ 45:00Certaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Organic (prompted)
Polyamine that promotes cellular autophagy and supports mitochondrial integrity in aging brains.
“Spermidine works by cellular autophagy
BG▶ 30:10Dosage1–3.5 mg/day for 3+ monthsCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted)
Lifting weights combined with cardio for neurogenesis and slowing cognitive decline.
“zone 2 cardio combined with resistance training
BG▶ 46:20Certaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Sponsor read
Ben endorses the Sunlighten infrared sauna for delivering high-quality infrared light with low EMFs and non-toxic materials.
“I have a sunlight sauna. This is patented heating technology
BG▶ 1:00Certaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Organic (prompted)
Amino acid that declines with age; supplementation may support brain function, especially in plant-based eaters.
“taurine seems to help quite a bit with brain function
BG▶ 36:50Dosage1–3 g/dayCaveatsLimited human trials; mostly anecdotal.Certaintyhedgedrecommendation -
Guest recommendation
Tommy Wood's book about challenging the brain through unpredictability and risk to maintain cognitive function.
“Dr. Tommy Wood, who wrote a book called The Stimulated Mind
BG▶ 44:00Certaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Sponsor read
Ben recommends Troscriptions buccal troches containing methylene blue, cordycepin, agarin, B3-GABA for calm, sleep, focus, and energy.
“I highly recommend Troscriptions
BG▶ 19:30DosagePlaced between upper cheek and gum; 15-30 minute onsetCertaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Sponsor read
Sponsor read for TruDiagnostic at-home epigenetic test analyzing 180+ biomarkers with a 90-day actionable plan.
“TruAge measures 180+ biomarkers and then provides you with personalized actionable steps
DosageTest, follow 90-day plan, retest; use code BEN20 for 20% offCertaintyexplicitrecommendationCited in 2 episodes: How To Build A Better BRAIN (+ Ketamine, Nicotine, Alcohol & More!) With Dr. Tommy Wood · Is VO2 Max Overrated? (& What To Focus On Instead), Old Man Olympics, Big Toe Health & More With Mark SissonView per-episode variants ▸
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Sponsor read
Oral pouches with B6, B12, paraxanthine, alpha-GPC, L-theanine, ginseng as a nicotine alternative for focus and energy.
“a healthy alternative to nicotine
BG▶ 16:00DosageOne pouch in mouth; lasts 1-2 hoursCertaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Sponsor read
Sponsor read for Ultra pouches containing paraxanthine, alpha-GPC, L-theanine, B-vitamins and ginseng as a nicotine alternative.
“smooth focus and energy that lasts about one to two hours
BG▶ 19:40DosageOne pouch in mouth as neededCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
In a protocol
Ben recommends velocity-based training with devices like GymAware or Push Band, terminating sets when bar speed drops ~20% from first rep.
“When velocity drops about 20% from your first rep, then you would terminate the set
BG▶ 33:10DosageTerminate set at ~20% velocity drop from first repCertaintyexplicitrecommendation -
Organic (prompted)
Transcranial and intranasal near-infrared photobiomodulation device for memory, reaction time, and mood.
“transcranial near-infrared light... penetrates the skull
BG▶ 40:10Certaintyexplicitpersonal use -
Alternative
Ben suggests a 30g whey protein shake as one practical way to hit per-meal protein targets for muscle protein synthesis.
“you could do a 30-gram whey protein shake
BG▶ 44:00Dosage~30g per shakeCertaintyexplicitoffhand mention -
Sponsor read
Cutting-edge beauty line with methylene blue spray, GHK-Cu, vampire exosomes, and NAD+spermidine moisturizer.
“most scientifically advanced cutting-edge company I know of in the beauty space
BG▶ 32:45DosageSpray, then exosomes, then NAD/spermidine moisturizerCertaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Organic (prompted)
Low-intensity aerobic training, the single most evidence-backed intervention for neurogenesis and BDNF.
“single most evidence-backed intervention for neurogenesis
BG▶ 46:20Certaintyexplicitstrong endorsement -
Avoid long cold plunges immediately after a hard workout because they can blunt mitochondrial biogenesis and satellite cell adaptations.
“don't do it after a hard workout
BG▶ 23:00DosageAvoid 10+ minute cold soaks post-workoutCaveatsShort 30-second cold exposure likely fineCertaintyexplicitmild caution -
Organic (prompted)
Oral form of minoxidil; Ben warns against due to tachycardia, hypertrichosis, and water retention side effects.
“Oral minoxidil, bigger issue
BG▶ 13:30Certaintyexplicitstrong warning -
Organic (prompted)
Conventional topical hair loss treatment; not a huge deal but can cause scalp irritation and unwanted hair growth on nearby skin.
“Topical minoxidil is not a huge deal
BG▶ 13:20CaveatsCan cause scalp irritation, dryness, itching, unwanted hair growth.Certaintyhedgedmild caution -
Organic (prompted)
Low-intensity scalp electrode current that modulates cortical excitability and may enhance memory and executive function.
“can significantly enhance memory access
BG▶ 38:00CaveatsBen personally didn't feel subjective benefit.Certaintyhedgedrecommendation -
Ben suggests weighted vests are a useful adjunct for walks and bodyweight workouts but should not replace formal resistance training for muscle maintenance.
“you still need to do like formal weight training in the gym
BG▶ 12:00DosageUsed during walks with bodyweight exercise gamification (squats/push-ups at mailboxes)CaveatsWeighted vest alone inferior to resistance training for preserving muscle in study of obese older adultsCertaintyexplicitmild caution