EP 1336
1336. Solo Episode – Nicotine Masterclass (pt. 1)
In this episode of The Human Upgrade, Host Dave Asprey reveals the shocking science behind nicotine as a misunderstood nootropic and metabolic enhancer. Far beyond cigarettes and addiction, nicotine in clean, microdosed form activates key pathways for brain optimization, mitochondrial function, and neuroplasticity. Dave breaks down how it influences acetylcholine, dopamine, metabolism, and inflammation, while outlining safe dosing strategies, ideal delivery methods, and who should avoid it. Backed by decades of research, this episode is a deep dive into how nicotine—used wisely—could be a powerful tool for biohacking, longevity, and smarter living.
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In this Episode of The Human Upgrade™...
Nicotine isn’t just addictive—it might be one of the most misunderstood nootropics in modern medicine. In this masterclass, you’ll learn how controlled, low-dose nicotine may enhance brain performance, boost neuroplasticity, improve mitochondrial function, and potentially extend lifespan. Host Dave Asprey breaks down the surprising science behind this controversial compound, separating fact from fear—and exposing the real risks that nobody talks about.
You’ll discover how nicotine affects neurotransmitters, why it may help with ADHD and focus, and how it compares to other cognitive enhancers like caffeine, nootropics, and even smart drugs. Dave explores how nicotine can be used to hack metabolism, enhance sleep optimization, and support fasting or ketosis protocols—if used properly.
He also reveals the forms of nicotine that are safest (spoiler: it’s not vapes or cigarettes), how nicotine works at the receptor level, and what the science says about long-term health effects. This episode blends functional medicine, brain optimization, and biohacking into one powerful, myth-busting breakdown.
You’ll Learn:
- How nicotine affects mitochondria, neurotransmitters, and dopamine signaling
- Why nicotine may boost neuroplasticity, memory, and attention span
- How low-dose nicotine compares to caffeine, modafinil, and other nootropics
- The safest delivery forms (and the ones to avoid)
- Whether nicotine supports or hinders longevity and cognitive resilience
- How it can be stacked with supplements, fasting, or ketosis
- What functional medicine says about chronic use, addiction, and withdrawal
This is essential listening for anyone serious about biohacking, human performance, and longevity, and for those who want to understand how functional biology and mitochondrial science are redefining recovery, energy, and aging.
Dave Asprey is a four-time New York Times bestselling author, founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and the father of biohacking. With over 1,000 interviews and 1 million monthly listeners, The Human Upgrade brings you the knowledge to take control of your biology, extend your longevity, and optimize every system in your body and mind. Each episode delivers cutting-edge insights in health, performance, neuroscience, supplements, nutrition, biohacking, emotional intelligence, and conscious living.
New episodes are released every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday (BONUS). Dave asks the questions no one else will and gives you real tools to become stronger, smarter, and more resilient.
Keywords: Nicotine microdosing, Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, Dopamine and motivation, Cognitive enhancement, Alzheimer’s prevention, Neuroinflammation, Mitochondrial function, TNF-alpha reduction, Vagus nerve activation, Longevity biohacking, Nicotine vs smoking, Nootropics, Attention and vigilance, Ketosis and metabolism, Functional medicine, Nicotine patches and gum, Addiction and tolerance, Receptor desensitization, Withdrawal protocols, Deep work performance
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“Nicotine is not the villain. It’s the delivery method that’s killing people.”
Dave Asprey
0:00 — Introduction
Host Dave Asprey opens the episode with a provocative take on nicotine and why it deserves a second look through the lens of biohacking and human performance.
1:27 — History & Background of Nicotine
Explores nicotine’s ancient roots, its cultural evolution, and how it shifted from plant medicine to demonized drug.
4:34 — How Nicotine Works
Breaks down the pharmacology of nicotine, its action on the nervous system, and its surprising effects on neuroplasticity, mitochondria, and metabolism.
15:12 — Benefits & Research
Reveals emerging science showing how nicotine can improve focus, memory, resilience, and longevity—when used strategically.
16:43 — Risks & Who Should Avoid It
Outlines who should not use nicotine, potential downsides of misuse, and why context, dose, and delivery are everything.
21:39 — Delivery Methods & Dosing
Compares patches, pouches, gum, sprays, and vaping—how they impact bioavailability, brain optimization, and long-term safety.
26:30 — Conclusion & Next Steps
Dave closes with final thoughts, including how to experiment safely, what to track, and where nicotine fits into a smarter not harder lifestyle.
Resources:
- Business of Biohacking Summit | Register to attend October 20-23 in Austin, TX https://businessofbiohacking.com/
- Danger Coffee: https://dangercoffee.com/discount/dave15
- Dave Asprey’s BEYOND Conference: https://beyondconference.com
- Dave Asprey’s New Book – Heavily Meditated: https://daveasprey.com/heavily-meditated
- Upgrade Collective: https://www.ourupgradecollective.com
- Upgrade Labs: https://upgradelabs.com
- 40 Years of Zen: https://40yearsofzen.com
Enjoy the show!
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