Biohacking Movement: Individuals Redefining Human Potential

A growing number of individuals around the world are transforming their health and wellness routines through biohacking, a movement that combines science, self-optimisation, and personal exploration. Entrepreneurs like Nicholas Lin and Vignesa Moorthy, along with researchers such as Professor Dean Ho from the National University of Singapore, are at the forefront of this trend, utilising various techniques to enhance their physical and mental well-being.

At age 43, Lin has meticulously crafted a daily regimen aimed at maintaining peak performance. He begins his day with seven hours of uninterrupted sleep followed by a breakfast accompanied by a carefully selected stack of 34 supplements. His daily caloric intake ranges between 2,050 and 2,250 calories, with a focus on high protein sources, including grass-fed beef and eggs. He also engages in a low-impact strength and conditioning workout each evening, dedicating time to what he describes as his “anti-ageing room,” equipped with advanced tools like red light panels and an oxygen concentrator.

Lin’s passion for biohacking stems from a desire to sustain the vitality he felt in his youth. “I thought about what my mental and cognitive peak was, and I set a goal to achieve that, like de-aging myself by almost 20 years,” he said. Over the past 14 years, he has meticulously tracked his regimen in a detailed 10-page document, hoping to optimise his health and performance.

Moorthy, a 52-year-old cybersecurity CEO, shares a similar journey. After his mother’s cancer diagnosis in 2019, he was compelled to take control of his health. He eliminated alcohol and cigarettes from his lifestyle and now invests approximately S$50,000 (US$38,500) annually in biohacking. His home is equipped with various technologies, including a hyperbaric oxygen chamber and red light panels. Each month, he undergoes a three-to-four-day water fast, aiming to rid his body of toxins. “Every step is a data-driven exercise,” Moorthy explained, as he monitors the effects of his lifestyle changes through blood tests and wearable technology.

Professor Ho’s biohacking journey began in 2021 with a simple blood testing kit. As the director of the Institute for Digital Medicine at NUS Medicine, he became intrigued by the potential of tracking glucose levels and other biomarkers. His commitment to understanding his metabolic health has led him to fast for up to 20 hours daily and to experiment with various dietary changes. He now conducts a double ethics board-approved study known as “Delta,” aimed at mapping personal health trajectories.

The biohacking community is diverse, with practices ranging from dietary adjustments to advanced technological interventions. Some individuals turn to red light therapy and hyperbaric oxygen treatments, while others focus on lifestyle changes like intermittent fasting and improved sleep routines. This movement represents a blend of personal accountability and scientific inquiry, as participants seek methods to enhance their quality of life.

Despite its increasing popularity, experts caution that biohacking can lead individuals into risky territory when enthusiasm overtakes evidence. Dr. Laureen Wang, head of the Healthy Longevity Research Clinic at Alexandra Hospital, warns that many biohacking interventions lack robust scientific validation and can often be experimental in nature. She emphasises the importance of approaching such practices with caution and the guidance of medical professionals.

The promise of biohacking is enticing. Many practitioners report tangible benefits, such as improved recovery times and enhanced mental clarity. For instance, Adrian Tan, a personal trainer, credits biohacking for aiding his recovery from two surgeries. He utilises supplements and therapies like red light therapy to accelerate healing and improve his overall health.

Nonetheless, the allure of control through biohacking can lead to obsessive behaviours, which experts advise against. Lin, for example, has decided to avoid sleep-tracking devices due to their potential to cause anxiety. Instead, he has cultivated a flexible approach, integrating various interventions into his life without adhering to a rigid schedule.

As the biohacking movement continues to evolve, it raises questions about the balance between self-experimentation and scientific rigor. Professor Andrea Maier from NUS Medicine highlights the importance of evidence-based strategies for longevity, stressing that maintaining a focus on lifestyle fundamentals—such as exercise, nutrition, and social connections—remains paramount.

While biohacking offers an innovative approach to personal health, experts urge individuals to proceed with discernment, ensuring that any interventions undertaken are supported by credible research and professional oversight. The goal, they agree, should not be mere longevity but rather enhancing quality of life and healthspan, ensuring that individuals can lead fulfilling and active lives well into old age.