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Dave Asprey

Laser Therapy for Biohacking: Why Precision Light Beats Broad Spectrum

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Cells understand light better than any supplement. Biohackers have used red light panels for decades to boost energy, speed recovery, and optimize mitochondrial function. But most people miss a critical distinction: lasers deliver something LEDs cannot.

Laser therapy – specifically low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation – uses focused, coherent light to penetrate deep into tissue and trigger specific cellular responses. Medical-grade lasers concentrate therapeutic wavelengths precisely where the body needs them, unlike LED panels that scatter light across broad areas.

Mitochondria respond differently to coherent laser light versus diffuse LED illumination. The depth of penetration, the density of photons delivered, and the specificity of targeting determine whether light therapy merely warms tissue or fundamentally upgrades cellular metabolism.

How Laser Photobiomodulation Works at the Cellular Level

Laser therapy centers on cytochrome c oxidase, the terminal enzyme in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light (630-850nm) hit this enzyme and enhance electron transport while increasing ATP production.[1,2]

Low-level laser therapy increases mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP synthesis, with peak effects occurring 3-6 hours after treatment.[3] ATP production jumps approximately 30% following proper laser exposure, while cellular oxygen consumption rises up to 70%.[4]

Four primary pathways drive these effects:

Cytochrome C Oxidase Activation: Laser photons dissociate inhibitory nitric oxide from cytochrome c oxidase, allowing increased electron flow through the respiratory chain. This restores mitochondrial function in cells experiencing metabolic stress or damage.[5]

Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Increase: Laser light elevates the electrochemical gradient across mitochondrial membranes, driving more efficient ATP synthesis. This effect persists for hours after treatment, supporting sustained cellular repair and regeneration.[6]

Retrograde Mitochondrial Signaling: Enhanced mitochondrial activity triggers signaling cascades that affect nuclear gene expression, promoting cellular proliferation, reducing inflammation, and supporting tissue repair.[7]

Nitric Oxide Modulation: Laser therapy releases nitric oxide from binding sites, improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to treated tissues. This enhances nutrient transport and waste removal at the cellular level.[8]

Laser vs LED: Why Coherence and Penetration Matter

Home red light devices use LEDs because they cost less and scale easily to large panel sizes. LEDs deliver broad-spectrum light that scatters across tissue surfaces through thermal and photochemical effects.

Lasers work differently. Coherent, monochromatic light penetrates 3-5 times deeper than LEDs at equivalent power levels.[9] Photons travel in synchronized waves, maintaining their energy as they move through tissue layers.

Penetration Depth: LED panels penetrate 8-10mm into tissue. Class 3R lasers reach 30-50mm, accessing deep muscle tissue, joints, and organs depending on treatment location.[10]

Energy Density: Lasers concentrate photon energy on specific treatment areas. A focused laser beam provides higher irradiance (power per unit area) than diffuse LED arrays, triggering stronger cellular responses with shorter treatment times.

Precision Targeting: Lasers treat specific injuries, trigger points, acupuncture points, and localized pain. LEDs blanket entire body regions with less control over dose delivery.

Treatment Efficiency: Laser therapy requires 60-90 seconds per treatment area versus 10-20 minutes for LED panels to achieve comparable cellular effects. Lasers deliver therapeutic doses faster with more predictable outcomes.

LEDs excel at broad skin treatments and whole-body sessions. But for targeted recovery, pain management, and deep tissue work, lasers provide advantages LEDs cannot match.

Clinical Applications: What Laser Therapy Delivers

Photobiomodulation through lasers addresses specific performance and recovery challenges:

Muscle Recovery Acceleration: Laser therapy post-exercise reduces delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and speeds return to peak performance. Increased ATP production and reduced oxidative stress help muscles repair faster after intense training.[11]

Joint Pain and Inflammation Reduction: Low-level laser therapy reduces inflammatory markers in joints, tendons, and ligaments. Pain decreases significantly while range of motion improves in conditions like osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and chronic joint pain.[12]

Wound Healing and Tissue Repair: Laser light stimulates fibroblast activity and collagen production, accelerating healing of cuts, abrasions, surgical incisions, and chronic wounds. Enhanced cellular metabolism speeds all phases of tissue regeneration.[13]

Neuroprotection and Cognitive Enhancement: Transcranial laser therapy improves cerebral blood flow and mitochondrial function in brain cells. Benefits appear for traumatic brain injury recovery, neuropathic pain, and potentially neurodegenerative conditions.[14]

Chronic Pain Management: Laser therapy provides drug-free pain relief by modulating nociceptor activity, reducing neurogenic inflammation, and improving tissue health in chronic pain conditions including back pain, fibromyalgia, and nerve pain.[15]

Skin Rejuvenation: Targeted laser treatment stimulates collagen synthesis, improves microcirculation, and reduces inflammation in skin tissue. This accelerates healing of scars, reduces fine lines, and improves overall skin health.

Dosing and Treatment Protocols

Effective laser therapy demands precision. Too little energy produces no effect. Too much inhibits the beneficial response through a biphasic dose relationship.

Target Optimal Wavelengths: Use red light (630-680nm) for surface tissue and skin. Apply near-infrared (810-850nm) for deep penetration into muscle, joints, and organs. Combine both wavelengths for comprehensive treatment.

Calculate Energy Density: Deliver therapeutic doses of 2-10 J/cm² per treatment area. Avoid exceeding optimal ranges – higher doses reduce effectiveness through photoinhibition.

Set Treatment Duration: Apply 60-90 second treatments per point. Treat multiple points in a single session depending on the condition and treatment goals.

Determine Frequency: Treat acute conditions daily. Address chronic issues with 3-4 sessions weekly. Maintain performance optimization with 2-3 weekly sessions.

Time Applications Strategically: Peak mitochondrial response occurs 3-6 hours post-treatment. Apply pre-workout to enhance performance. Use post-workout to speed recovery. Adjust timing based on specific goals.

Safety and Contraindications

Class 3R lasers used for therapeutic photobiomodulation deliver excellent safety profiles when used properly. These devices operate at power levels (5-500mW) well below those that cause thermal damage.

Follow these critical safety guidelines:

  • Protect eyes – never direct laser light into eyes as brief exposure damages retinal tissue
  • Avoid treatment over cancerous lesions or active tumors
  • Exercise caution during pregnancy, particularly over the abdomen
  • Check for photosensitizing medications that may increase light sensitivity
  • Follow manufacturer protocols for treatment duration and intensity

Most adverse effects stem from improper dosing rather than the technology itself. Following validated protocols prevents issues while maximizing benefits.

The Case for Personal Laser Devices

Clinical laser therapy costs $75-150 per session. Athletes, biohackers, and people managing chronic pain find better economics in device ownership.

Personal laser systems deliver:

On-Demand Access: Treat injuries immediately instead of waiting for appointments. Address pain and stiffness as it occurs rather than working around clinic schedules.

Consistent Protocol Adherence: Frequency matters more than session intensity for many conditions. Home devices enable the 3-5 weekly sessions that produce optimal results.

Precision Personalization: Experiment with different treatment points, durations, and frequencies to discover what works best for specific biology and recovery needs.

Multi-User Benefits: Families address various issues from sports injuries to chronic pain to skin health with a single device. Kids and pets benefit from the same therapeutic effects.

Long-Term Cost Savings: Quality laser devices pay for themselves within 10-20 clinical sessions while providing unlimited treatments thereafter.

Introducing Precision-Guided Laser Therapy

The 528 Innovations laser therapy system represents the next evolution in home photobiomodulation. This delivers true Class 3R laser technology, not another LED panel marketed as “clinical grade” while delivering diffuse light therapy.

528 Innovations provides:

Clinic-Grade Power in Portable Format: Medical-quality therapeutic lasers designed for home use, delivering the photon density and penetration depth found in clinical devices.

Modular, Expandable Design: One device adapts to multiple users and applications. The platform grows with needs rather than forcing purchase of separate devices for different purposes.

App-Guided Treatment Protocols: The 528i mobile app connects to the device, providing precision-guided therapy experiences. It walks users through validated protocols for specific conditions and goals.

Multi-Wavelength Capability: Combines red and near-infrared wavelengths in a single system, allowing both superficial and deep tissue treatment without switching devices.

Safety-Rated Design: Class 3R safety rating provides powerful therapeutic effects while maintaining user safety through engineered power limits and built-in safety features.

This system bridges the gap between clinical effectiveness and home convenience. It delivers the precision targeting and deep penetration of medical lasers while remaining simple enough for daily personal use.

Biohackers serious about recovery, performance, and cellular optimization gain a tool that fundamentally upgrades how cells generate energy and repair damage. Unlike supplements that work through complex metabolic pathways, light therapy speaks the ancient language that mitochondria understand directly.

The question isn’t whether light therapy works – decades of research confirm the mechanisms and effects. The question is whether the right kind of light maximizes those benefits.

Ready to upgrade cellular function with precision laser therapy?

Explore the 528 Innovations Laser Therapy System

The future of biohacking isn’t working harder. It’s working smarter by giving biology the precise signals it needs to perform at peak capacity.

Scientific References

[1] Karu TI. Mitochondrial mechanisms of photobiomodulation in context of new data about multiple roles of ATP. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 2010;28(2):159-160.

[2] Hamblin MR. Proposed Mechanisms of Photobiomodulation or Low-Level Light Therapy. IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics. 2016;22(3):348-364.

[3] Ferraresi C, et al. Low-level laser (light) therapy increases mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP synthesis in C2C12 myotubes with a peak response at 3-6 hours. Photochemistry and Photobiology. 2015;91(2):411-416.

[4] Wong-Riley MT, et al. Photobiomodulation directly benefits primary neurons functionally inactivated by toxins: role of cytochrome c oxidase. Journal of Biological Chemistry. 2005;280(6):4761-4771.

[5] Karu TI, et al. Absorption measurements of a cell monolayer relevant to phototherapy: reduction of cytochrome c oxidase under near IR radiation. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology. 2005;81(2):98-106.

[6] Passarella S, Karu T. Absorption of monochromatic and narrow band radiation in the visible and near IR by both mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial photoacceptors results in photobiomodulation. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology. 2014;140:344-358.

[7] Amaroli A, et al. Photobiomodulation affects key cellular pathways of all life-forms: considerations on old and new laser light targets and the calcium issue. Photochemistry and Photobiology. 2019;95(1):455-459.

[8] Huang YY, et al. Biphasic dose response in low level light therapy. Dose-Response. 2009;7(4):358-383.

[9] Bjordal JM, et al. A systematic review with procedural assessments and meta-analysis of low level laser therapy in lateral elbow tendinopathy. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2008;9:75.

[10] Tumilty S, et al. Low level laser treatment of tendinopathy: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 2010;28(1):3-16.

[11] Leal Junior EC, et al. Effect of phototherapy on recovery kinetics and oxidative stress markers in athletes after muscle damage exercise. Lasers in Medical Science. 2015;30(7):2065-2073.

[12] Bjordal JM, et al. Low-level laser therapy in acute pain: a systematic review of possible mechanisms of action and clinical effects. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 2006;24(2):158-168.

[13] Woodruff LD, et al. The efficacy of laser therapy in wound repair: a meta-analysis of the literature. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 2004;22(3):241-247.

[14] Naeser MA, et al. Improved cognitive function after transcranial, light-emitting diode treatments in chronic, traumatic brain injury: two case reports. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 2011;29(5):351-358.

[15] Chow RT, et al. Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of neck pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet. 2009;374(9705):1897-1908.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new therapeutic protocol. Laser therapy devices should be used according to manufacturer instructions and validated clinical protocols.

Nicotine: Smart-Drug Potential for Focus, Brain, and Longevity

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Most people hear “nicotine” and think “cigarettes.” But nicotine itself isn’t the villain—it’s the delivery system that causes harm. In my most recent episode of The Human Upgrade, I explain why low-dose nicotine, used occasionally and correctly, can enhance focus, improve brain function, and possibly support longevity.

Let’s separate science from smoke.

What Nicotine Actually Does

Nicotine activates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs)—the same pathways that regulate alertness, learning, and attention. When stimulated in moderation, these receptors can improve cognitive performance.

Studies show that nicotine:

  • Increases attention and working memory in healthy adults (PMID: 29110618)
  • Improves synaptic signaling and neurotransmitter efficiency (PMC6018192)
  • Enhances motor control and reaction time during cognitive tasks

When used intentionally, nicotine acts as a short-term nootropic—a tool that can fine-tune your brain’s performance rather than overstimulate it.

Nicotine and the Brain

Your brain consumes roughly 20 percent of your body’s energy even when you’re at rest. When fatigue, aging, or stress hit, your neurons demand more efficient signaling to stay sharp.

Low-dose nicotine supports neuronal efficiency and neuroplasticity in controlled studies. One 2023 review found nicotine helps attenuate age-related cognitive decline and may boost neurotrophic factors that protect neurons (Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2023).

Another study of adults aged 60–75 found that nicotine enhanced performance in those with lower baseline scores, suggesting it restores cognitive efficiency rather than artificially overstimulating high performers (Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 2021).

The takeaway: nicotine doesn’t “boost” everyone equally—it helps fill energy gaps where your brain needs it most.

Nicotine and Longevity

Longevity is about preserving function and maintaining resilience. Emerging data suggests nicotine can influence mitochondrial signaling and neuronal protection when used carefully.

A 2023 Frontiers in Neuroscience paper identified nicotine as a potential modulator of mitochondrial function and neuroinflammation (Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2023).

However, a systematic review from 2020 found inconsistent results and warned that nicotine’s benefits depend on dose, frequency, and user baseline—and that industry-funded studies sometimes overstate results (PMC7271274).

In short: nicotine can play a protective role in theory, but overuse flips that switch. Biohackers should view it as a precision molecule, not a habit.

How I Use Nicotine (and When I Don’t)

This is my personal protocol—not a recommendation for everyone.

When I use it:

  • During long writing or recording sessions that demand deep focus
  • When crossing time zones and needing alertness without caffeine crashes
  • Occasionally, to extend fasting focus

How I dose it:

  • Start at 1–2 mg, delivered as a clean lozenge (not smoking or vaping)
  • Use for 30–60 minutes max, no more than a few times a week
  • Always stay hydrated and avoid stacking with other stimulants

When I skip it:

  • On high cardiovascular load days (training, sauna, etc.)
  • If I feel jittery or notice any craving
  • If I’m using other stimulants or under high stress

The biohacker’s rule applies: use it as a tool, not a crutch.

Myths and Reality Checks

Myth 1: “Nicotine kills brain cells.”
Fact: Smoking does. Pure nicotine, in moderate doses, can enhance cognitive performance and neural signaling (Scientific American, 2017).

Myth 2: “Nicotine is automatically addictive.”
Fact: Addiction risk increases with fast delivery systems like smoking or vaping. Slow, low-dose forms such as lozenges or gum carry lower potential for dependency when used occasionally.

Myth 3: “It’s the same as cigarettes.”
Fact: Nicotine ? tobacco smoke. Cigarettes deliver over 7,000 chemicals. Pure nicotine, used in isolation, has a dramatically different safety profile.

Myth 4: “It gives a caffeine-like jolt.”
Fact: Nicotine provides a focused clarity, not a stimulant surge. Think “tightening the signal,” not “hitting the gas pedal.”

Watch: Nicotine, the Misunderstood Smart Drug

In this YouTube episode, I explain how nicotine works in the brain, why dose and delivery determine safety, and how I use it strategically for cognitive performance and longevity—not addiction.

Watch the full episode: Nicotine: Smart-Drug Potential for Focus, Brain, and Longevity

Bottom Line

Nicotine, stripped of smoke and used in microdoses, has legitimate nootropic and neuroprotective potential. It improves attention, supports brain metabolism, and may even slow certain aspects of cognitive aging.

But like any powerful compound, context and restraint matter. Used occasionally and intentionally, it’s a tool for focus. Used daily or carelessly, it’s a liability.

The difference between biohacking and self-sabotage is precision.

Watch My Nicotine Masterclass Part 1:

References

  1. Mansvelder HD. Cognitive Effects of Nicotine: Recent Progress. 2018. PMC6018192
  2. Posner MI. Nicotine and Brain Activation During Working Memory Tasks. PNAS, 2006.
  3. Echeverria V et al. Nicotine and Its Derivatives in Disorders of Cognition. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2023.
  4. Pasetes SV et al. Cognitive Performance Effects of Nicotine and Industry Affiliation: A Systematic Review.Substance Abuse, 2020.
  5. Min et al. Nicotine and Cognition in Cognitively Normal Older Adults. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 2021.
  6. Scientific American. “Will a Nicotine Patch Make You Smarter?” 2017.

 

The Hidden Link Between Electrolytes, Energy, and Mitochondria

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You can drink all the water you want – but if you’re low on electrolytes, you’re still dehydrated. Not “thirsty dehydrated.” Cellularly dehydrated.

That’s the kind of dehydration that tanks your energy, focus, and performance – even when you think you’re doing everything right.
Let’s fix that.

What Electrolytes Really Do

Electrolytes – sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium – aren’t just minerals. They’re the electrical wiring of your biology.
They power the charge across your cell membranes, control muscle contraction, keep your heart rhythm steady, and help your mitochondria make energy.

In other words: without electrolytes, your cells can’t fire properly. You’re a biohacker running on airplane mode.

The Mitochondrial Connection

Mitochondria – the tiny power plants inside your cells – depend on voltage gradients to generate ATP (cellular energy).
Electrolytes maintain that gradient. When levels drop, your mitochondrial function and energy output drop with them.

A 2023 review in Free Radical Biology and Medicine found that mineral cofactors are essential for mitochondrial function and redox balance, noting that electrolyte deficiencies directly impair energy production and oxidative resilience?PMID: 35131590?.

Another study published in Frontiers in Physiology (2024) confirmed that imbalances in sodium, potassium, and magnesium alter mitochondrial membrane potential and lead to increased oxidative stress?PMID: 38261509?.

The takeaway?
When you skimp on electrolytes, your mitochondria literally lose their charge.

Why Hydration Without Electrolytes Doesn’t Work

Water follows electrolytes – not the other way around. Without minerals to guide it, water passes through your body instead of entering your cells.
That’s why you can chug a liter of water and still feel tired or dizzy 30 minutes later.

A study in The Journal of Applied Physiology found that plasma sodium concentration is the single best predictor of hydration status after exercise – not water volume?PMID: 28402954?.

Translation: You need minerals for hydration that matters.

How Keto, Fasting, and Saunas Deplete Electrolytes

If you’re fasting, eating low-carb, sweating in the sauna, or using Bulletproof Coffee to extend your intermittent fast, you’re losing electrolytes faster than average.

Low insulin levels make your kidneys excrete sodium and water – taking magnesium and potassium with them.
That’s one reason why “keto flu” or “fasting fatigue” hits so hard: your electrolyte stores drop, your voltage drops, and your brain feels like it’s running through mud.

A 2022 clinical review in Nutrients showed that electrolyte depletion during low-carb or fasting states impairs neuromuscular efficiency and increases perceived fatigue?PMID: 35956347?.

Signs You’re Low on Electrolytes

You don’t need a lab test to know when your electrolytes are low. Your body tells you:

  • Brain fog or mid-day energy crashes
  • Salt cravings or dizziness
  • Muscle cramps or twitching
  • Headaches that improve after salt
  • Fatigue even after sleeping well
  • Dry mouth or thirst that won’t quit

If that sounds familiar, your problem isn’t hydration – it’s charge.

Why “Just Salt” Isn’t Enough

Regular table salt gives you sodium (and chloride), but no magnesium or potassium.
Those other electrolytes keep sodium balanced and prevent fluid retention or cramping.

The goal isn’t “more salt.” It’s the right ratios:

  • Sodium: 1000–2000 mg
  • Potassium: 200–400 mg
  • Magnesium: 60–100 mg

That’s what your mitochondria need for voltage stability, nerve signaling, and hydration efficiency.

What I Personally Use

I use LMNTa clean, science-backed electrolyte mix with zero sugar, no artificial junk, and optimal mineral ratios.
I use it during fasting, travel, and sauna sessions to keep my voltage high and prevent energy crashes.

Try LMNT here  – use my affiliate link to get a free sample pack with any purchase.

(Affiliate disclosure: I may receive a commission if you use this link, at no additional cost to you.)

Watch: “The Real Reason You Feel Dehydrated”

In this episode on my YouTube channel, I break down how electrolytes regulate mitochondrial voltage, what happens when you’re chronically low, and why smart hydration is one of the easiest performance upgrades you can make.

Watch now: You Need More Electrolytes On a Keto Diet

The Bottom Line

You don’t need more water. You need better water—water charged with the minerals that make life electric.

Optimize your electrolytes. Power up your mitochondria.
And watch your energy, focus, and recovery shift from “meh” to upgraded.

Modafinil: The “Limitless” Compound That Changed My Brain + 6 Ways I Stack It To Make It Better

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Back in the late 90s, I was failing out of Wharton Business School. Not because of a lack of intelligence, but because my brain simply wasn’t working the way it should. Mold toxins had already given me brain damage I didn’t yet know about. I went to a psychiatrist and he handed me Adderall. 

Adderall helped me focus in class—but at a cost. It destroyed my mood. I’d go home, curl up in the dark, and want no human contact. For me, it was misery in pill form. And I’m not alone. While Adderall works for some, for most it’s not a sustainable solution. 

Then came modafinil. 

I remember the first dose clearly. It wasn’t like a stimulant. I wasn’t jittery or anxious. Instead, the lights simply turned on. Suddenly I could operate at the level I always knew I should. 

Have you ever seen the movie Limitless with Bradley Cooper? It’s based on modafinil. When he takes the pill, the colors shift and turn richer and deeper. Whoever shot that scene clearly knew what modafinil feels like. 

Why Modafinil Is Different 

Modafinil isn’t technically a stimulant. It’s an eugeroic, meaning “wakefulness-promoting-agent”.  Doctors prescribe it for narcolepsy and sleep disorders [1] but in healthy people it provides sustained mental clarity and focus without the crash. 

Unlike Adderall or caffeine, which increase your heart rate and can cause jitters, modafinil flips a different switch. It keeps you awake, focused, and calm without feeling over-stimulated.  

That’s why U.S. Air Force pilots started using it during long combat missions in the Gulf War. They needed to stay sharp for hours without the crashes, jitters, or caffeine-induced bathroom breaks that could compromise a mission. 

By 1998, the FDA approved it under the name Provigil, and from there it spread. Hedge fund managers, world-class poker players, heads of state, and yes, tech entrepreneurs turned to it. Modafinil gives you an edge that lets your brain perform at its peak without burning out. 

And if you’re thinking, “wait, this sounds addictive”, science shows that compared to stimulants, modafinil has very low addictive potential [2]. But the intense focus you get from it is unreal.  

It’s also incredibly effective for jet lag. Usually jet lag symptoms persist one day for every time zone you cross [3]. But modafinil changes that. I do a lot of things to minimize jet lag when I travel that work incredibly well on their own– like wearing True Dark glasses and strategically fasting. More on that in this blog post. But modafinil can really help too.  

 

The Science Behind the “On Switch” 

So what does modafinil do in your brain? It interacts with a variety of neurotransmitters including: 

Orexin – Modafinil stimulates orexin neurons, which regulate your sleep/wake cycle. People with narcolepsy have disturbances in their orexin system, which explains modafinil’s therapeutic effect [4]. 

Dopamine – It increases dopamine in your brain, but less dramatically than other stimulants. That gives focus and motivation without addictive reinforcement [5]. 

Histamine + Norepinephrine – No, histamine isn’t always bad. It’s a neurotransmitter and you need some of it. When it increases alongside norepinephrine, you become more focused and awake [6]. 

Glutamate/GABA Balance – By changing glutamate and GABA in key brain regions, modafinil amplifies clarity without excess noise [4]. 

Modafinil as a Longevity Tool 

The longevity world has a long tradition of repurposing low-dose pharmaceuticals. Low-dose Cialis, a drug for erectile dysfunction, protects blood flow in your brain. People use rapamycin (an immunosuppressant) and metformin (a diabetic drug) for lifespan extension. 

Modafinil belongs on that list. It supports mitochondrial function [7], fights fatigue, reduces brain inflammation [8], and may protect against neurodegeneration [9]. Early trials are already exploring its role in slowing cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s and for reducing long COVID fatigue [10]. 

Sourcing and Access 

In the U.S., modafinil is a schedule IV controlled substance. Doctors prescribe it for narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, sleep apnea, and off-label for ADHD. If you discuss symptoms of delayed sleep phase disorder or shift work sleep disorder with your physician, there’s a good chance they’ll prescribe modafinil—and insurance often covers it. 

Internationally, modafinil is easy to access. In India or Mexico, you can walk into a pharmacy and ask for it. The most common generic you’ll see is Modalert. U.S. law also allows you to legally import 90 days of a prescription drug with a doctor’s note, even from overseas. This is true for most pharmaceuticals, but not all of them. I’m not recommending you do this but it’s your biology, so you get to have control 😉 

There are research chemical knockoffs like adrafinil. Don’t bother. It stresses your liver and isn’t worth it. R-modafinil (armodafinil) is a newer, slightly tweaked version some people prefer—but not me. 

 

How to Start Smart 

If you’re new, start slow. Take half of a dose (50mg) on a low-pressure morning, track your mood and focus, and note side effects. Next time, try 100mg. Clinical doses range from 100–400mg, but more isn’t better. 

Don’t take it after noon if you care about sleep. It has about a 12-15 hour half life [11]. So that means at 12 hours, half of the dose is still in your body. Start with pulsing it—weekdays on, weekends off. And remember, modafinil isn’t a replacement for sleep, nutrition, or recovery. It amplifies whatever baseline system you put it into. 

 

6 Ways to Stack Modafinil for Maximum Effect 

Modafinil shines when you combine it with the right environment and biohacks. Here are 6 ways I’ve stacked it to make it even better: 

  1. Cold exposure: Pair modafinil with cryotherapy or a cold plunge for amplified dopamine and norepinephrine. Instant Jedi mode. 
  2. Fasting or ketosis: Cleaner brain fuel plus modafinil = razor-sharp clarity. 
  3. Red and infrared light therapy: For increasing mitochondrial ATP production. 
  4. Noise-canceling headphones + single-tasking: Add distraction-free focus and you might do two weeks’ worth of work in four hours. 
  5. Supplements: Rhodiola and L-theanine—these smooth the edges and extend resilience. 
  6. Lifestyle: HRV tracking and prioritizing recovery. Just because you’re feeling invincible on modafinil doesn’t mean you can ignore sleep and recovery. 

 

Respect the Compound 

Don’t mask burnout with modafinil. Don’t use it to justify chronic sleep deprivation. Use it to elevate a foundation of good sleep, diet, light management, and recovery. 

Yes, it works as a sleep substitute for crunch time—like studying for a final exam or crushing a work deadline—but that’s not its best role. Its best role is giving you calm, sustained cognitive power while preserving your brain long-term. 

That’s why, after more than two decades, modafinil is still part of my baseline high-performance state. And why I believe it belongs on the short list of pharmaceutical tools that not only transform performance today, but may also extend how long your brain works at its best. 

As always, ask your doctor before taking any new medications. If you want to learn more about modafinil, check out this solo podcast I recorded on The Human Upgrade:

 

References: 

  1. Greenblatt K, Adams N. Modafinil. [Updated 2023 Feb 6]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531476/
  2. Urban AE, Cuba?a WJ. The role of eugeroics in the treatment of affective disorders. Psychiatr Pol. 2020 Feb 29;54(1):21-33. English, Polish. doi: 10.12740/PP/OnlineFirst/90687. Epub 2020 Feb 29. PMID: 32447354. 
  3. Lee A, Galvez JC. Jet lag in athletes. Sports Health. 2012 May;4(3):211-6. doi: 10.1177/1941738112442340. PMID: 23016089; PMCID: PMC3435929. 
  4. Hersey M, Tanda G. Modafinil, an atypical CNS stimulant? Adv Pharmacol. 2024;99:287-326. doi: 10.1016/bs.apha.2023.10.006. Epub 2023 Nov 22. PMID: 38467484; PMCID: PMC12004278. 
  5. Mereu M, Bonci A, Newman AH, Tanda G. The neurobiology of modafinil as an enhancer of cognitive performance and a potential treatment for substance use disorders. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2013 Oct;229(3):415-34. doi: 10.1007/s00213-013-3232-4. Epub 2013 Aug 10. PMID: 23934211; PMCID: PMC3800148. 
  6. Gerrard P, Malcolm R. Mechanisms of modafinil: A review of current research. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2007 Jun;3(3):349-64. PMID: 19300566; PMCID: PMC2654794. 
  7. Ranjbari E, Philipsen MH, Wang Z, Ewing AG. Combined electrochemistry and mass spectrometry imaging to interrogate the mechanism of action of modafinil, a cognition-enhancing drug, at the cellular and sub-cellular level. QRB Discov. 2021 Jul 2;2:e6. doi: 10.1017/qrd.2021.4. PMID: 37529675; PMCID: PMC10392688. 
  8. Ozturk Y, Bozkurt I, Guvenc Y, Kepoglu U, Cingirt M, Gulbahar O, Ozcerezci T, Senturk S, Yaman ME. Modafinil attenuates the neuroinflammatory response after experimental traumatic brain injury. J Neurosurg Sci. 2023 Aug;67(4):498-506. doi: 10.23736/S0390-5616.21.05382-0. Epub 2021 Sep 21. PMID: 34545730. 
  9. Zager A. Modulating the immune response with the wake-promoting drug modafinil: A potential therapeutic approach for inflammatory disorders. Brain Behav Immun. 2020 Aug;88:878-886. doi: 10.1016/j.bbi.2020.04.038. Epub 2020 Apr 18. PMID: 32311496. 
  10. Pliszka, A. G. (2022). Modafinil: A review and its potential use in the treatment of long COVID fatigue and neurocognitive deficits. American Journal of Psychiatry Residents’ Journal, 17(4), 7–10. https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.ajp-rj.2022.170402 
  11. Kim D. Practical use and risk of modafinil, a novel waking drug. Environ Health Toxicol. 2012;27:e2012007. doi: 10.5620/eht.2012.27.e2012007. Epub 2012 Feb 22. PMID: 22375280; PMCID: PMC3286657. 

Long-COVID & Vaccine Recovery: Dave Asprey’s 5-Step Protocol + 2 Extras 

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If you’re dealing with lingering symptoms after a virus or a vaccine, you’re not alone. Many people report fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and strange, hard-to-explain issues that don’t go away. This guide lays out a practical, step-by-step protocol to support recovery. 

These are the tools I personally use, combining published research with personal experience. The protocol targets key problem areas like histamine overload, spike protein debris, nutrient depletion, and mitochondrial dysfunction. It also includes two optional additions that may enhance recovery further. 

You can use this protocol to explore options with your doctor or practitioner—and adjust based on your unique needs. 

1. Use H1 and H2 Antihistamines for Mast? Cell Support 

Studies show that many long-covid and vaccine-related inflammatory symptoms are due to overactive mast cells [1]. Mast cells are a type of white blood cell that release histamine and other substances during inflammatory and allergic reactions (2). When your mast cells are overactive, they release way too much histamine, causing a variety of symptoms including rashes, rapid heartbeat, flushing, gastrointestinal issues, low blood pressure, fainting, nasal stuffiness, and more [3]. 

To address this, I recommend taking antihistamines that work on two types of histamine receptors – H1 and H2. Claritin (loratadine) is an H1 blocker and Pepcid (famotidine) is an H2 blocker. Take both twice a day – once in the morning and once in the evening. Continue this regimen for six months, the typical time it takes your body to regenerate mast cells. 

Pepcid blocks stomach acid production but you need stomach acid to digest your food. Always take Betaine HCl with your meals when you’re doing this protocol.  

2. Take Enzymes to Tackle Spike? Protein Fragments 

Enzyme blends like nattokinase, serrapeptase and lumbrokinase help break down leftover spike?protein fragments and prevent excess blood clotting [4] [5]. Enzymes will also help with brain fog because better blood flow means getting more oxygen and nutrients to your brain. Take systemic enzymes on an empty stomach, away from food, so your body directs them toward circulation and repair instead of digestion.
 

3. Take Fat-Soluble Vitamins 

Stress depletes your vitamin and mineral levels [6]. Diet alone won’t give you everything you need.  The fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins D,A,K, and E) are especially important for immunity and post-viral recovery [7].  Studies show many people who have long COVID have low vitamin D levels [8]. The best strategy is to take a combined fat-soluble vitamin (DAKE) supplement since they work best together. Everyone responds differently to vitamin D supplements, so if you need to, you can take extra D3 until your blood levels reach 70-90 ng/mL which is the level most anti-aging doctors recommend. I take Vitamin DAKE from my company, Suppgrade Labs.  

4. Don’t Forget Your Minerals 

Minerals power every reaction that goes on in your body. They’ll support your recovery from long-COVID. I take Minerals 101 from Suppgrade Labs since it has all of the right minerals in the right forms that your body needs. 

5. Take Mitochondrial Stimulators 

People with long COVID have mitochondrial dysfunction [9]. Some of the best mitochondrial stimulators are urolithin A [10], L-carnitine, MitoQ, and alpha-lipoic acid [11]. Follow dosing from the supplement manufacturers.  

6. Extras: 

Look into Low-Dose Nicotine Therapy 

First of all, this is not smoking. Smoking is bad for you. We are talking about pure, low-dose pharmaceutical-grade nicotine. Here’s how it works: Studies show COVID proteins bind to specific receptors in your body and impair the cholinergic system [12]. This is a system that helps control things like thinking, memory and bodily functions. Nicotine binds to the same receptors within this system that viral proteins bind to. Scientists believe that nicotine can displace the viral proteins at this site which then restores normal function of the cholinergic system [13]. Start slowly. Between 1-6 mg per day is the sweet spot for most people. More is not better. You can use a nicotine patch, gum, or lozenges. If you choose gum or lozenges, make sure they’re from a reputable brand and don’t have any artificial ingredients or microplastics.   

Quercetin  

Quercetin is a mast cell stabilizer meaning it prevents mast cells from releasing histamine and other inflammatory compounds [14]. It also helps clear senescent cells aka “zombie cells” which accumulate in long-COVID [15]. Take 500-1000 mg per day. 

 

TL;DR 

1. Antihistamines 

  • Claritin (H1 blocker): AM + PM for 6 months 
  • Pepcid (H2 blocker) AM + PM for 6 months (take Betaine HCl with meals) 

2. Enzymes 

  • Nattokinase, serrapeptase, lumbrokinase daily on an empty stomach 

3. Vitamins 

  • Vitamin DAKE (fat-soluble blend) – daily 
  • Vitamin D3 until blood levels reach 70-90 ng/mL 

4. Minerals 

  • Minerals 101 – daily 

5. Mitochondrial Support 

  • Urolithin A, l-carnitine, MitoQ, alpha lipoic acid daily  

6. Extras: 

  • Nicotine: 1-6 mg daily (patch, additive-free gum or lozenge) 
  • Quercetin: 500-1000 mg per day 

 

References: 

  1. Weinstock LB, Brook JB, Walters AS, Goris A, Afrin LB, Molderings GJ. Mast cell activation symptoms are prevalent in Long-COVID. Int J Infect Dis. 2021 Nov;112:217-226. doi: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.09.043. Epub 2021 Sep 23. PMID: 34563706; PMCID: PMC8459548. 
  2. Christ P, Sowa AS, Froy O, Lorentz A. The Circadian Clock Drives Mast Cell Functions in Allergic Reactions. Front Immunol. 2018 Jul 6;9:1526. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01526. PMID: 30034393; PMCID: PMC6043637. 
  3. Frieri M. Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2018 Jun;54(3):353-365. doi: 10.1007/s12016-015-8487-6. PMID: 25944644. 
  4. Tanikawa T, Kiba Y, Yu J, Hsu K, Chen S, Ishii A, Yokogawa T, Suzuki R, Inoue Y, Kitamura M. Degradative Effect of Nattokinase on Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2. Molecules. 2022 Aug 24;27(17):5405. doi: 10.3390/molecules27175405. PMID: 36080170; PMCID: PMC9458005. 
  5. Wang KY, Tull L, Cooper E, Wang N, Liu D. Recombinant protein production of earthworm lumbrokinase for potential antithrombotic application. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:783971. doi: 10.1155/2013/783971. Epub 2013 Dec 12. PMID: 24416067; PMCID: PMC3876685. 
  6. Lopresti AL. The Effects of Psychological and Environmental Stress on Micronutrient Concentrations in the Body: A Review of the Evidence. Adv Nutr. 2020 Jan 1;11(1):103-112. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmz082. PMID: 31504084; PMCID: PMC7442351. 
  7. Samad N, Dutta S, Sodunke TE, Fairuz A, Sapkota A, Miftah ZF, Jahan I, Sharma P, Abubakar AR, Rowaiye AB, Oli AN, Charan J, Islam S, Haque M. Fat-Soluble Vitamins and the Current Global Pandemic of COVID-19: Evidence-Based Efficacy from Literature Review. J Inflamm Res. 2021 May 21;14:2091-2110. doi: 10.2147/JIR.S307333. PMID: 34045883; PMCID: PMC8149275. 
  8. di Filippo L, Frara S, Nannipieri F, Cotellessa A, Locatelli M, Rovere Querini P, Giustina A. Low Vitamin D Levels Are Associated With Long COVID Syndrome in COVID-19 Survivors. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2023 Sep 18;108(10):e1106-e1116. doi: 10.1210/clinem/dgad207. PMID: 37051747; PMCID: PMC10505553. 
  9. Molnar T, Lehoczki A, Fekete M, Varnai R, Zavori L, Erdo-Bonyar S, Simon D, Berki T, Csecsei P, Ezer E. Mitochondrial dysfunction in long COVID: mechanisms, consequences, and potential therapeutic approaches. Geroscience. 2024 Oct;46(5):5267-5286. doi: 10.1007/s11357-024-01165-5. Epub 2024 Apr 26. PMID: 38668888; PMCID: PMC11336094. 
  10. Andreux PA, Blanco-Bose W, Ryu D, Burdet F, Ibberson M, Aebischer P, Auwerx J, Singh A, Rinsch C. The mitophagy activator urolithin A is safe and induces a molecular signature of improved mitochondrial and cellular health in humans. Nat Metab. 2019 Jun;1(6):595-603. doi: 10.1038/s42255-019-0073-4. Epub 2019 Jun 14. PMID: 32694802. 
  11. Molnar T, Lehoczki A, Fekete M, Varnai R, Zavori L, Erdo-Bonyar S, Simon D, Berki T, Csecsei P, Ezer E. Mitochondrial dysfunction in long COVID: mechanisms, consequences, and potential therapeutic approaches. Geroscience. 2024 Oct;46(5):5267-5286. doi: 10.1007/s11357-024-01165-5. Epub 2024 Apr 26. PMID: 38668888; PMCID: PMC11336094. 
  12. Leitzke M, Roach DT, Hesse S, Schönknecht P, Becker GA, Rullmann M, Sattler B, Sabri O. Long COVID – a critical disruption of cholinergic neurotransmission? Bioelectron Med. 2025 Feb 27;11(1):5. doi: 10.1186/s42234-025-00167-8. PMID: 40011942; PMCID: PMC11866872. 
  13. Kopa?ska M, Batoryna M, Bartman P, Szczygielski J, Bana?-Z?bczyk A. Disorders of the Cholinergic System in COVID-19 Era-A Review of the Latest Research. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Jan 8;23(2):672. doi: 10.3390/ijms23020672. PMID: 35054856; PMCID: PMC8775685. 
  14. Weng Z, Zhang B, Asadi S, Sismanopoulos N, Butcher A, Fu X, Katsarou-Katsari A, Antoniou C, Theoharides TC. Quercetin is more effective than cromolyn in blocking human mast cell cytokine release and inhibits contact dermatitis and photosensitivity in humans. PLoS One. 2012;7(3):e33805. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033805. Epub 2012 Mar 28. PMID: 22470478; PMCID: PMC3314669. 
  15. Wissler Gerdes EO, Vanichkachorn G, Verdoorn BP, Hanson GJ, Joshi AY, Murad MH, Rizza SA, Hurt RT, Tchkonia T, Kirkland JL. Role of senescence in the chronic health consequences of COVID-19. Transl Res. 2022 Mar;241:96-108. doi: 10.1016/j.trsl.2021.10.003. Epub 2021 Oct 22. PMID: 34695606; PMCID: PMC8532377. 

Unlocking Peak Performance: The Dynamic Duo of Neurofeedback and Physical Exercise

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In the ever-evolving world of sports and fitness, athletes are constantly seeking that extra edge to elevate their performance. Imagine harnessing the power of your brain and combining it with physical exercise to unlock your full potential. Sounds intriguing, right? This is where the fascinating intersection of neurofeedback and physical exercise comes into play. But how exactly do these two powerhouse techniques complement each other to enhance athletic performance?

Neurofeedback: Training Your Brain for Success

Neurofeedback, often dubbed as “brain training,” is a cutting-edge technique that helps individuals regulate their brain activity. By monitoring brain activity and providing real-time feedback, neurofeedback enables athletes to optimize their mental state. This can translate into improved focus, reduced anxiety, and faster reaction times—all crucial elements for peak performance. Studies have shown that neurofeedback can lead to significant enhancements in cognitive functions, which are essential for athletic excellence.

The Physical Exercise Connection: Strengthening Body and Mind

We all know that physical exercise is a cornerstone of any athlete’s regimen. It builds strength, endurance, and agility. But the magic really happens when neurofeedback and physical exercise work together. Neurofeedback helps athletes achieve a state of flow—an optimal state of consciousness where they are fully immersed in their activity. This heightened focus and mental clarity can lead to better performance during training and competition. Meanwhile, the physical benefits of exercise ensure that the body is primed and ready to perform at its best.

Mendi: Revolutionizing Neurofeedback for Athletes

One company at the forefront of this integration is Mendi. Mendi has been working closely with global CrossFit, tennis, and many other athletes to bring the benefits of neurofeedback to the world of sports. Using state-of-the-art technology, Mendi’s devices provide real-time feedback on brain activity, allowing athletes to train their minds alongside their bodies. This holistic approach not only enhances performance but also ensures that athletes can recover more effectively, maintain peak mental health, and extend their careers. Better yet, Mendi is suitable for everyone from regular gym-goers to Olympic athletes, making advanced neurofeedback accessible to all.

References:

The Use of Neurofeedback in Sports Training: Systematic Review
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10136619/

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