Medium.com CENSORED this +6000-word article
Boycott Bayer 🚫 Healthier alternatives to Bayer's drugs and products
To my surprise, the management of Medium.com actually censored this article...
In the ensuing years as Bayer-Monsanto's sordid behavior has been exposed it's become more and more obvious that Medium’s woke content moderation team are on the wrong side of history.
$66,000,000,000
Sixty-six billion dollars - that's how much Bayer just agreed to pay to acquire Monsanto in a deal that will potentially have tectonically negative consequences for the world and your longevity.
You don't need to be an ethics philosopher to see the significant moral hazard in the unholy marriage of a company that makes people very sick and a company that sells drugs to treat sickness.
A brief history of these two corporate giants...
Bayer was founded in 1863 in Germany. A pioneer in the chemical and proto-pharmaceutical industries they invented Aspirin and contributed to the industrial revolution in Europe. In 1925 in a nation impoverished by WW1, Bayer joined the IG Farben conglomerate, which has gone down in history as one of the evilest corporate citizens of all time; researching and producing chemicals like Zyklon B that enabled some of the most despicable war crimes in history.
It would be difficult to call the current iteration of the company evil based solely on its participation in WW2 70 years ago, however many still consider it one of the least benign corporate citizens in the world because of its Factor VIII scandal in the 1980s. When it turned out that a product of theirs infected 6,000 hemophiliacs with AIDS they paid out a $600 million settlement and then outrageously proceeded to continue to sell the product in other international markets, infecting unwitting people around the world with the deadly virus. Today they hold over 60 thousand patents and have 82 branded products.
Monsanto needs little introduction, it's an American company founded around the turn of the 20th century that produced food additives like saccharin, caffeine, and vanillin.
They also produced the insecticide DDT, which can largely be credited for diminishing the blight of malaria epidemics around the world, but it (perhaps unfairly) was demonized by environmentalists and ultimately banned.
Monsanto's contribution to history that has perhaps earned it more infamy than any other is its role in the production of Agent Orange; used by the US as a chemical weapon in the Vietnam war.
One of their most successful products Roundup, based on Glyphosate, is identified in an increasing number of recent studies as a serious threat to public health.
Today Monsanto remains one of the most hated companies in the world for its role as a producer of GMO seeds and its employment of draconian legal tactics to force farmers to use their products. Monsanto has been banned from at least 38 countries. Today they hold over 4000 patents and have 37 different brands.
I don't ascribe to the fringe conspiracy theories about the purposeful evilness of these companies; I think it's a combination of the perverse sticks and carrots that our globalized world offers in combination with the outgroup preference that a corporate culture engenders naturally amongst its employees. David Eagleman delivers an interesting talk here on how otherwise good people dehumanize others...
Without making too much of a treatise on why anti-trust laws exist, this deal is not a product of the free market. These companies are quintessential examples of crony capitalism gone very awry. A white paper by Konkurrenz Group, a leading law firm specializing in mergers and acquisitions concludes that this merger violates the Clayton Act:
"No person . . . shall acquire, directly or indirectly, . . . where in any line of commerce or in any activity affecting commerce in any section of the country, the effect of such acquisition may be substantially to lessen competition, or to tend to create a monopoly."
Despite the apparent illegality and public outrage, Bayer is betting a billion dollars that the deal will go through.
While Monsanto will face a tribunal at The Hague in October 2016 these companies are too big to fail and too big to jail. In 2013 Obama signed, what was widely called, the Monsanto Protection Act which even conspiracy theory adverse Snopes couldn't deny is a "precedent-setting limitation on judicial review of genetically-engineered crops."
What can we do?
A petition calling on anti-trust authorities in the US and EU to further scrutinize this merger has already been signed by over a half million people. I've signed it, I hope you will too!
I'll join the many others that are responding to this merger with a boycott of Bayer's products. Below I list 40 of Bayer's consumer products, I'll present alternatives; Nutraceuticals along with biohacking, diet, and lifestyle recommendations.
Adalat™
a clinically proven blood pressure control medication
From a 2010 press release. Also known by the less pleasant name Nifedipine, is a hypertension drug that may cause the proliferation of breast cancer according to a 2014 paper:
Our findings highlight that nifedipine but not verapamil is conducive for breast cancer growth and metastasis, urging that the caution should be taken in clinic to prescribe nifedipine to women who suffering both hypertension and breast cancer, and hypertension with a tendency in breast cancers.
Alternatives:
ALCAR (particularly in combination with ALA) helps with hypertension
Adaptogenic herbs like Siberian Ginseng
Alternative Drugs: Plendil, Lopressor, Prazosin
Adempas™
a novel agent for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (2014 Pubmed)
Avoid: Traveling to or living at high elevations
Alternatives: Nicotinamide Riboside, a Nootropic of many talents, likely treats pulmonary hypertension.
Alternative Drugs: Riociguat
Advantan™
A well-established, topical corticosteroid indicated for treatment of all stages of eczema, currently marketed in more than 80 countries worldwide. As one of the most common dermatologic chronic-recurrent disease, variable therapeutic options are available today for management of psoriasis. Although topical high potency corticosteroids, alone or in association with salicylic acid or vitamin D analogues, are still considered the best treatment, they do not seem to possess the capability for a long-term control of the disease or prevent recurrences, as their side effects are major contraindications for continuative use. (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: DHEA seems to effectively treat eczema for at least a handful of people on forums, and MayoClinic agrees.
Alternative Drugs: Elidel, Sigmacort, Elocon, Vaseline, Diprosone, Hydrocortisone (Steroid).
Afrin™
Use for Relief from Nasal Congestion due to Colds or Allergies
Oxymetazoline is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages. Dilated blood vessels can cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose). Oxymetazoline nasal (for the nose) is for temporary relief of nasal congestion (stuffy nose) caused by allergies or the common cold. (from Drugs.com)
Alternatives: Neti Nasal Douche is a method yogis have been using since time immemorial to get rid of nasal congestion.
Alternative Drugs: Sudafed, Flonase, Phenylephrine.
Aleve™
Non-prescription pain-reliever with particularly long-lasting action.
Aleve (naproxen) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Naproxen works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Aleve is used to temporarily relieve minor aches and pains due to arthritis, muscular aches, backache, menstrual cramps, headache, toothache,and the common cold. Aleve is also used to temporarily reduce fever. (from Drugs.com)
Alternatives: According to Arthritis.org, Ginger Tea is a substitute worth considering for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Alternative Drugs: Ibuprofen, Meloxicam
Alka-Seltzer™
Provides fast, effective acid indigestion and heartburn relief that's safe and gentle for upset stomachs. Formulations differ per country
Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold is used for: Relieving symptoms of colds, hay fever, and allergies such as headache, sinus pain, nasal and sinus congestion, sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, fever, and itching of the nose or throat. (from Drugs.com)
Avoid: Combining yin and yang foods! Read up on Trophology: The Science of Food Combining. Chamomile Tea can also help with heartburn.
Alternatives:
Alternative Drugs: Antacids, salicylates.
Aspirin™
A pain-reliever that works against headaches as well as acute back, muscle and joint pain. Low-dose Aspirin™ is also used during suspected heart attack to help reduce damage to the heart, and as cornerstone therapy for reducing risk of recurrent CV events, specifically, heart attack and ischemic stroke.
Aspirin is used to reduce fever and relieve mild to moderate pain from conditions such as muscle aches, toothaches, common cold, and headaches. It may also be used to reduce pain and swelling in conditions such as arthritis. Aspirin is known as a salicylate and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). (from Publix)
Alternatives: Resveratrol and Turmeric are proven to reduce or eliminate pain better than leading prescription medications. From a 2004 study:
Overall these results indicate that aspirin and ibuprofen are least potent, while resveratrol, curcumin, celecoxib, and tamoxifen are the most potent anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative agents of those we studied.
Curcumin is the active ingredient in (and what gives) Turmeric that awesome yellow color.
Wintergreen and (or) Lavender essential oils, combined with coconut oil, should be rubbed in near the site of the pain. If medical marijuana or Kratom is legal where you live they can be great options for pain management.
Aspirin and Aleve are also hard on the kidneys, so if you've used them a lot it's a good idea to tonify your kidneys with Schisandra Chinensis.
Alternative Drugs: Celecoxib, Tamoxifen, Tocotrienol, Arginine, Cayenne, Lysine
Avelox™/ Avalox™
Avelox is used to treat different types of bacterial infections of the skin, sinuses, lungs, or stomach. It is also used to treat and prevent plague. Fluoroquinolone antibiotics can cause serious or disabling side effects. Avelox should be used only for infections that cannot be treated with a safer antibiotic. (Pubmed)
From the abstract of a 2014 paper:
Moxifloxacin has good efficacy in the treatment of patients with [acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis], [community-acquired pneumonia], acute bacterial sinusitis and uncomplicated skin and skin structure infections, and is generally well tolerated.
Alternatives: Reading some different accounts on the forums, Fluoroquinolone antibiotics just seem like evil shit - I would avoid them at all costs.
Alternative Drugs: Levaquin, Prednisone, Moxifloxacin.
Berocca™
The special combination of B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium and zinc helps to provide the brain and nerves with energy, supporting mental and physical performance.
Berocca® Performance is a performance multivitamin that helps improve mental performance and physical stamina. It contains a specific combination of B group vitamins and vitamin C, enhanced with added calcium, magnesium and zinc. When taken daily Berocca® is a healthy way to get more out of every day. (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Berocca is a Nootropic; another similar performance-enhancing B-Vitamin stack Neuro-Stack is a super premium Nootropic stack that I've used myself.
Alternative Drugs: Revive, B-Active, ASDA Energise
Bepanthen™
Bepanthen is an ointment containing pro-vitamin B5. Pro-Vitamin B5 gently aids natural skin recovery, while keeping it soft smooth and moisturised. Bepanthen forms a long lasting, breathable transparent layer, protecting even the most delicate skin from the causes of nappy rash. (Pubmed)
Alternatives: To Biohack your skin I recommend the adaptogenic herb Schisandra Chinensis for 100 days, DMAE skin cream, and eating whole coconuts!
Alternative Drugs: Vaseline, Lasinoh, Lanolin, Daktozin.
Betaferon™ / Betaseron™
Healing skin for over 70 years, with innovative products that offer protection for the whole family.
Betaferon is used to treat adult patients who have multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a disease of the nerves, in which inflammation destroys the protective sheath around the nerves. This is called 'demyelination'. (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Anecdotally Kratom works wonders for some dealing with multiple sclerosis.
Alternative Drugs: Avonex, Extavia, Betaseron.
Canesten™
Provides relief from unusual and embarrassing skin- and intimate health conditions, such as vaginal yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, athletes foot or nail fungus.
Clotrimazole is an antifungal medication commonly used in the treatment of fungal infections such as vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, and ringworm. It is also used to treat athlete's foot and jock itch. (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Probiotic yogurt is antifungal and a natural remedy for vaginal yeast infections.
Alternative Drugs: Clotrimazole (generic)
Claritin™
Provides effective, 24-hour, non-drowsy relief from indoor and outdoor allergy symptoms.
Claritin (loratadine) is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.Claritin is used to treat sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other cold or allergy symptoms.Claritin is also used to treat skin hives and itching in people with chronic skin reactions. (From Drugs.com)
Alternatives: Quercetin, Stinging Nettle, Bromelain, Vitamin C, and Green Tea are natural antihistamines.
Alternative Drugs: Nasacort Aq (Triamcinolone)
Ciprobay™ / Cipro™
Described by Dr. David Flockhart of Indiana University School of Medicine as a tremendously powerful antibiotic.
Ciprofloxacin is used to treat a wide variety of infections, including infections of bones and joints, endocarditis, gastroenteritis, malignant otitis externa, respiratory tract infections, cellulitis, urinary tract infections, prostatitis, anthrax, and chancroid. (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Medicinal Silver is also worth looking at which resource site SilverSolutions.org lists as a treatment for various bacterial infections, Gonorrhea, and Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Anybody considering taking this or other fluoroquinolones should take a gander at the Longecity thread Cipro Hell.
Alternative Drugs: Doxycycline seems to be highly regarded as a low-risk antibiotic, Bactrim, Keflex
Coppertone™
A wide range of products that protects your skin from the sun.
Preventing sunburn and protecting against skin damage from ultraviolet (UV) light.Coppertone is a sunscreen. It works by blocking the sun's UV rays. (From a 2006 study on Jelly fish stings)
Alternatives: Coconut and Aloe Vera oil block 20% of the sun's rays while Sesame Oil blocks 30%. Other notable natural sunblock skin-protectors: supplementing Astaxanthin before a day at the beach or using Coola-tinted moisturizer.
Dr. Scholl’s™
Pain from being on your feet all day? Get immediate relief from foot pain, knee pain or lower back pain. Dr Scholl's is approved for Blisters and Foot Pain.
Alternatives: Foot Powder, Tinactin, Cool Gel, Resinol
Desonate™
Desonide is a topical (for the skin) steroid. It reduces the actions of chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, redness, and swelling. Desonide topical is used to treat the inflammation and itching caused by a number of skin conditions such as allergic reactions, eczema, and psoriasis. (from RxList.com)
Alternatives: Coconut oil helps skin redness. Cucumber has anti-inflammatory properties when left on the skin for 5-10 minutes. Applying olive oil to the rash and washing the affected area with chamomile tea is among the options listed in a useful article on NaturalNews.com.
Alternative Drugs: Hydrocortisone, fluocinonide, Protopic
Diane-35™
Diane-35 ED is used for the treatment of signs of androgenisation in women, such as severe acne where other treatments have not been successful, or for excessive growth of facial or body hair (known as hirsutism) of a mild to moderate degree, where no underlying cause has been found. Diane-35 ED can also be used as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy in women who are taking it for the treatment of signs of androgenisation. (from NPS.org)
Alternatives: This product is bad news; a Guardian article reports that 125 women suffered possibly life-threatening side-effects linked to Diane-35 or its generics. Apparently, hormonal birth control is a major cause of Androgenization
Alternative Drugs: Accutane, Spironolactone
Elevit™
A pregnancy multivitamin and mineral supplement that has been specially formulated to help meet the increased nutritional needs of women who are trying to conceive, pregnant and breastfeeding.
Elevit is a pregnancy multivitamin and mineral supplement that has been specially formulated to help meet the increased nutritional needs of women who are trying to conceive, pregnant and breastfeeding. (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Supplementation of folinic acid is a pretty good idea during pregnancy. From a 2004 paper meta-analyzing the data from human studies totaling over 5600 women:
Periconceptional use of folic acid alone or in multivitamin supplements is effective for the primary prevention of neural-tube defects. The Hungarian randomized and two-cohort controlled trials showed that periconceptional multivitamin supplementation can reduce the occurrence of some other structural birth defects, i.e. congenital abnormalities.
Nootropic stacks rich in B-Vitamins that have a lot of the same ingredients as Elevit.
Women who want to optimize their bodies for fertility will want to switch to a diet of mostly healthy fats and will want to read The Better Baby Book.
Eylea™
Eylea (aflibercept) is a recombinate protein indicated for the treatment of patients with Neovascular (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)... a common cause of blindness. (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Ginkgo Biloba, there are at least 12 studies on Pubmed linking the herb to positive results. From one 2013 paper:
Two published trials were identified that randomised a total of 119 people. In one study conducted in France, 20 people were randomly allocated to Gingko biloba extract EGb 761 80 mg twice daily or placebo. In the other study conducted in Germany, 99 people were randomly allocated to two different doses of Ginkgo biloba extract... Both trials reported some positive effects of Ginkgo biloba on vision however their results could not be pooled.
Alternative Drugs: Lucentis, Aflibercept, Iluvien.
Glucobay™
Glucobay belongs to the class of oral antidiabetic drugs (OAD) called alpha-glucosidase inhibitors. With over one hundred studies examining its role as a treatment for type 2 diabetes and accumulating evidence of its efficacy in prediabetes, acarbose is an important intervention option throughout the hyperglycaemic disease continuum. In addition, in several trials acarbose shows cardiovascular benefits at all stages of hyperglycaemia. (2012 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Holy Basil and Rosmarinic Acid are natural Alpha-Glucosidase inhibitors, as is resveratrol.
Alternative Drugs: Acarbose, Precose, Glucophage, Metformin.
Iberogast™
Iberogast is a plant based medicine that effectively relieves multiple gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain, cramps, heaviness, fullness, bloating, flatulence, nausea and heartburn. It is also indicated for the treatment of Functional Dyspepsia and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).
Iberogast is a plant-derived extract supplement used to treat several gastric disorders and irritable bowel syndrome. It is made from a concoction of 9 ingredients: Iberis amara, Angelica, Chamomile, Caraway Fruit, St. Mary’s Thistle, Lemon Balm Leaves, Peppermint Leaves, Celandin, Liquorice Root and alcohol. (2013 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Iberogast is a cocktail of Nutraceuticals and herbs, many of which you can consume as teas or supplements (links above)
Probiotics are a good idea for those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome; so drink up some Kefir! From a 2010 meta-analysis:
The etiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is thought to be multifactorial, with several factors (including alterations in gut motility, small-bowel bacterial overgrowth, microscopic inflammation, and visceral hypersensitivity) potentially playing a role. Recent studies have suggested that probiotics may be useful in the treatment of IBS. Although the exact mechanism for how probiotics may aid in the reduction of symptoms commonly found in IBS is unknown, the effects of probiotics on alterations in gut bacteria appear to play a part.
Alternative Drugs: Reglan, Mottilium, Zelnorm.
Jaydess™ / Skyla™
Jaydess® is a low-dose levonorgestrel intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) that offers women a reliable form of contraception. Jaydess® is an effective long acting contraceptive providing up to 3 years of freedom from contraception routine.
Jaydess® is the smallest IUS available and comes in the smallest placement tube of only 3.8 mm. (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: The traditional rhythm method is recommended in combination with male semen retention in The Tao Of Health, Sex, and Longevity:
A woman is relatively “safe” from conception during the 7 days prior to and immediately following the first day of menstruation. If as an extra margin of safety we reduce that to 5 days, we then have an 11-day period each month during which pregnancy should not occur. During that period, a couple may make love anytime, anyplace, and as often as they wish, with or without male ejaculation, without worrying about pregnancy. This is the traditional rhythm method. (5751-5754)
The book also has some interesting recommendations on herbal birth control
For thousands of years, the young women of Polynesia have enjoyed complete and uninhibited sexual freedom prior to marriage, with no worries about unwanted pregnancy. Their secret is to eat a few handfuls of papaya seeds every day. The active ingredient responsible for their freedom from pregnancy is vitamin B17, more popularly known as laetrile, the controversial drug banned in the United States due to unproven claims that it can prevent and help cure cancer. (4571-4574)
You can't buy laetrile itself (there are a bunch of interesting conspiracy theories why) but you can eat foods high in it; apple seeds, Californian apricot seeds (eat 6 or 7 seeds), peach seeds, and bitter almonds.
Alternative Drugs: Levosert.
Kogenate™
Kogenate® FS Antihemophilic Factor (Recombinant) is a medicine used to replace clotting factor (factor VIII or antihemophilic factor) that is missing in people with hemophilia A. Kogenate FS is used to treat and control bleeding in adults and children with hemophilia A. (2013 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Helixate, Xyntha, Advate.
Levitra™
Levitra (vardenafil) relaxes muscles found in the walls of blood vessels and increases blood flow to particular areas of the body. Levitra is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence). (2012 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Erectile Dysfunction is often due to an amalgamation of factors, but the first step to fixing it would be quantifying and Biohacking one's testosterone levels.
Get a blood test for testosterone.
Optimize your diet; Switch to an organic diet high in healthy fats. Cut out the sugars and processed carbs, and don't consume things that raise your estrogen levels - like beer!
Take cold showers.
Consistent exercise and resistance weight training.
Reduce stress (easier said than done, right?) by practicing meditation or 10 minutes daily of Dual N-Back brain training.
Along with natural and herbal supplements like Zinc, Vitamin D, Ashwagandha, and the others described below.
In the Biohacking communities to which I contribute, I'll frequently hear from (sometimes young) men who are having issues getting it up and even getting excited about women. I make a couple of common sense, yet uncommonly practiced methods...
No Fap and no watching porn for two or three weeks (longer if you are over 40)
Regular platonic physical interaction with women; salsa classes, Bachata dancing, getting a massage, or male cheerleading?
Horny Goat Weed has a hard (Pun intended!) earned reputation, as an erection enhancer. While it has this effect in men of all ages, it's a particularly effective agent for dealing with erectile dysfunction. To this effect it's fast-acting, according to one user:
"I took it before bed, 30-40 minutes before sex, and oh my god, I had one of the best sex ever :) I decided to take it only on the day when I'm sure I will have sex. I took it 3 times and I can confirm that the sex is much better due to extremely hard and long lasting erections. This stuff makes me more sensitive, but on the same time I can have all under control"
Ginseng will make her sing! A 2009 Korean study of 143 men experiencing erectile dysfunction, concluded after 8 weeks of treatment at 2 grams daily:
Erectile function and overall satisfaction scores after medication were significantly higher in the [mountain ginseng extract] group than in the placebo group...
Alternative Drugs: Viagra, Cialis, Prostaglandin E1 injections, Vacuum erection devices, L-arginine.
MiraLAX™
Relieves occasional constipation and softens stool.
MiraLax (polyethylene glycol 3350) is a laxative solution that increases the amount of water in the intestinal tract to stimulate bowel movements. MiraLax is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation or irregular bowel movements. (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Consuming Aloe vera gel is one of the proven and researched natural laxatives there is. A tablespoon of olive oil and a teaspoon of lemon juice. Chia seeds and flaxseeds contain the kind of fiber that lubricates digestion. A glass of prune juice a day will help things flow in your plumbing down there.
I'll mention that my bowel movements have never been better than when I'm eating a whole coconut every day. I actually notice that when I eat a whole coconut I pass very little of it, raw coconut is so useful my body uses almost all of it, very little of it passes easily through me and ends up in the toilet.
Alternative Drugs: Dulcolax, Colace, Fibercon.
Mirena™
Mirena is a hormone-releasing IUD that releases small amounts of a progestin hormone called levonorgestrel locally into the uterus. Mirena lasts for as long as you want, for up to 5 years. (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: Taoists use the Traditional Rhythm Method for birth control in combination with tantric semen retention:
A woman is relatively “safe” from conception during the 7 days prior to and immediately following the first day of menstruation. If as an extra margin of safety we reduce that to 5 days, we then have an 11-day period each month during which pregnancy should not occur. (5751-5753)
Alternative Drugs: Implanon
Nebido™
Nebido is injected into a muscle in your body. There it can be stored and gradually released over a period of time. Nebido is used in adult men for testosterone replacement to treat various health problems caused by a lack of testosterone (male hypogonadism). (2016 Pubmed)
Alternatives: One of the most underrated ways to boost testosterone is increasing the healthy fats in your diet; eating coconuts, avocados, or using coconut oil - a tablespoon of olive oil a day and raw nuts; almonds, or pecans.
50 milligrams of DHEA supplemented daily will increase testosterone. From Dr. Joseph Mercola:
I advise using bioidentical hormones like DHEA... This substance is the most abundant precursor hormone in the human body. It is crucial for the creation of vital hormones, including testosterone and other sex hormones. I recommend using a trans-mucosal DHEA cream... and rubbing it in, down there.
L-Glutamine is a favorite of bodybuilders because in combination with BCAAs it's a real testosterone hack! One of my newsletter subscribers reported:
L-Glutamine does wonders for my testosterone. The best way I can describe it is being in zone and feeling very primal!
Super Male Vitality will boost your testosterone so you can fight the new world order!
Chase all those powdered supplements with delicious Beetroot and Pomegranate juice;
beetroot is a Nitric oxide biohack for testosterone, from a 2014 study on Pomegranate
Pomegranate fruit has been extensively used as a natural medicine in many cultures... Pomegranate juice showed significant elevation in testosterone...
According to Dave Asprey, Ultraviolet-B Light shined on the testicles for several minutes increases testosterone and a 2013 study agrees
In conclusion, the [low level laser therapy] might be an alternative treatment modality to the conventional types of testosterone replacement therapy.
A 2003 Russian study and a 2014 Iranian study found that near-infrared and red light shined on the testicles increase male fertility by hacking testosterone.
Nexavar™
Sorafenib, is a kinase inhibitor drug approved for the treatment of primary kidney cancer, advanced primary liver cancer, and radioactive iodine resistant advanced thyroid carcinoma. (from Drugs.com)
Avoid: Yet more research confirms that alcohol consumption, even moderate social drinking is linked to liver cancer.
All the more reason to Biohack your boozing or replace your social drinking habit with Phenibut.
Alternatives: Cat's Claw has a notable helpful effect on thyroid carcinoma, from a 2009 Austrian paper:
Cell growth of [Medullary thyroid carcinoma] cells as well as enzymatic activity of mitochondrial dehydrogenase was markedly inhibited after treatment with different fractions of the plant... These promising results indicate the growth-restraining and apoptotic potential of plant extracts against neuroendocrine tumors, which may add to existing therapies for cancer.
The Adaptogenic herbs Eleuthero, Schisandra Chinensis, and Ginseng tonify, maintain, and can even repair the kidneys and liver.
Alternative Drugs: Sutent, Avasil, Torisel, Tarciva.
One-A-Day™
For more than 70 years, One A Day has been innovating personal nutritional support to create multivitamins made specially for you.
Supplementing the diet with vitamins, minerals, and calcium. One-A-Day Within is a multivitamin and mineral combination. It increases the amount of calcium and vitamins in the body. (from Drugs.com)
Multivitamins have been the subject of harsh criticism due to a couple of recent high-visibility studies that showed little to no benefit from them, leading many to believe that multivitamins are useless. However, as you can see from recent multivitamin studies on Pubmed there's at least an equal amount of research indicating a quantifiable benefit of multivitamins. However, there are a couple of good reasons by smart consumers and Biohackers wouldn't use this kind of multivitamin product.
No Quality Control - A single-ingredient product manufacturer has a significant incentive for the ingredient to be high quality, legitimate, and verified by 3rd party analysis. A multivitamin that contains numerous ingredients has a whole lot less reason to source high-quality individual ingredients, indeed there's very little reason to believe that most multivitamin and supplement stack products actually contain the ingredients on the label.
A/B Testing - Biohackers use individual supplements in isolation to ascertain specific desirable effects. Combining a bunch of different ingredients may help but leaves a significant degree of uncertainty about what's actually helping.
Insufficient Dosages - Many multivitamins simply don't contain the individual ingredients in the amounts that have been demonstrated as effective in human studies.
Questionable Absorbability - In the multivitamin format, it's questionable whether our bodies are even able to absorb the helpful ingredients. Funnily-colored pee is commonly reported after taking multivitamins, indicating that they are just passing through our bodies.
Alternatives: Given these downsides, I wouldn't spend money on multivitamins or supplement stacks that don't have 3rd party COAs. I created this flowchart breaking down individual supplemental ingredients by effect(s) desired, it's a great place for smart consumers to start researching what they should be taking.
Alternative Drugs: Thorne Multivitamins - Ben Greenfield hold this multivitamin brand in very high esteem.
Priorin™
For the dietary treatment of hormonal genetic hair-growth impairment and hair loss in women (androgenetic alopecia).
Hair growth progresses very slowly and requires a little patience. Therefore it is recommended that you use PRIORIN® for a period of at least 3 months. (from NU3.com)
Alternatives: Anti-inflammatory compounds Resveratrol, Curcumin, and Turmeric promote hair growth. One Longecity Biohacker articulated it best...
"alopecia androgenetica is the consquence of micro-inflammation in and around the hair follicles. If that's true, resveratrol and other anti-inflammatories (like curcumin) should have a positive effect on androgenetic hair loss."
This herbal cocktail is a potent treatment for Alopecia:
"Cuscuta reflexa (Roxb.), Citrullus colocynthis (Schrad.), and Eclipta alba (Hassk.) are traditionally acclaimed herbs for their hair growth-promoting potential. Aim In the present study, it was envisaged to prepare herbal formulations containing petroleum ether extracts of the three herbs in varying ratio and evaluating the formulations for the hair growth-promoting activity... Hair growth initiation time was markedly reduced to one third on treatment with the prepared formulation compared with control animals. The time required for complete hair growth was also reduced by 32%... The prepared formulation also holds potential for treatment of alopecia."
Pumpkin Seed Oil is a pretty effective hair Biohack at least for men according to a 2014 study:
76 male patients with AGA received 400 mg of PSO per day or a placebo for 24 weeks... Mean hair count increases of 40% were observed in PSO-treated men at 24 weeks, whereas increases of 10% were observed in placebo-treated men...
Redoxon™
Redoxon believes that everyone has the basic right to a healthy life. Since over 80 years Redoxon is at the forefront in delivering innovative solutions supporting the immune health. Redoxon is truly science for a better life.
Redoxon® is dedicated to help keep your immune system – your body’s natural protector on top form. With 80 years of experience, we are the leading immune brand in the UK*. Today we offer a range of innovative products containing high strength ingredients to help support and maintain your body’s natural defences. These include a combination of vitamins (C, A, D, B6, B12 & Folic Acid) and minerals (Zinc, Iron, Copper, Selenium) which help to support your immune system**. (from Drugs.com)
Alternatives: The most effective immune Biohack I've used is Immune 26; thanks to it I've only spent 8 hours sick in 12 years. According to a +10,000-person study conducted on Pluto (I mean Siberia, Russia), Eleuthero is a seriously effective immune supplement and a whole lot cheaper!
Vitamin C, Zinc, and Cough Suppressant.
Rennie™
Provides fast, reliable relief from heartburn, a sensation of fullness and pressure in the stomach.
Rennie helps relieve tummy problems including heartburn, indigestion and trapped wind. (2000 Pubmed)
Alternatives: A teaspoon of Baking Soda is one of the most effective and consistent ways to relieve acid reflux and heartburn.
Alternative Drugs: Gaviscon, Omeprazole, Remegel, Zantac
Skinoren™
Specially designed to treat adult female acne, helping to get healthy skin that feels beautiful.
Skinoren cream (also known as Azelex) is a topical antibacterial lotion used to treat acne by preventing the formation and spread of pimples and blackheads (comedones) which occur in acne. Skinoren cream also has a potential use for treatment of androgenetic alopecia (hair loss) in men and women. (from Drugs.com)
Alternatives: Regular red light therapy and supplementing Collagen is the best-evidenced skincare "beauty-hacking" regimen.
Stivarga™
Stivarga (regorafenib) is a cancer medication that interferes with the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. Stivarga is used to treat colorectal cancer. It is also used to treat a rare type of tumor that can affect the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. (from Drugs.com)
Alternatives: Vitamin B17 is an option worth considering for eliminating cancer that is caught in very early stages, from a recent in vitro study of prostate cancer cells:
Amygdalin exhibits significant antitumor activity in both castration-sensitive and castration-resistant PCa cell lines and merits further evaluation for therapeutic purposes
Alternative Drugs: Avastin, Erbitux, Zaltrap, Xiloda.
Supradyn™
Complete multivitamin and multi mineral formula. High dose of essential vitamins to give you an effective energy recharge during demanding periods.
Supradyn contains 12 vitamins in balanced proportions as well as essential minerals and trace elements. Supradyn is recommended in all cases where there is a risk of vitamin or mineral deficiency: during convalescence following an illness or operation, with long-term slimming diets or special restricted diets.
Taking a multivitamin is kind of like a person who finds religion on their deathbed just before they pass away. It's probably not actually going to help you, but considering how low the cost of doing so is and given the ever-so-slight chance that it will do you good... hey why not!
Alternatives: A Biohacker would never rely upon a multivitamin to enhance their performance or improve their health. What they would do instead...
Via thorough research, identify a desired effect from a specific ingredient.
Acquire that ingredient from a high-quality source.
Take that ingredient in isolation for 5-7 days to ascertain the effect resulting.
Experiment with raising and lowering the dosage.
Cycle off the supplement.
Repeat with another ingredient for 5-7 days to determine the subjective difference.
Then combine the ingredients to see if their combined effect is desired.
Use individual ingredients and combinations of ingredients episodically for specific demands and goals.
Start your research here in our Nootropic ingredients database!
Xarelto™
Rivaroxaban is an oral anticoagulant invented and manufactured by Bayer; in a number of countries it is marketed as Xarelto. In the United States, it is marketed by Janssen Pharmaceutica. (from Drugs.com)
Alternatives: Curcumin - a consistent anti-coagulant, along with Eliquis, Pradaxa.
Xofigo™
Xofigo (zo-FEEG-oh) is an intravenous (IV) injection of the radioactive material radium 223. It is used to treat prostate cancer that is resistant to medical or surgical treatments that lower testosterone and has spread to your bones with symptoms, but not to other parts of your body. (from Drugs.com)
Alternatives: If you have cancer (or are worried about it) implement everything in The Cancer Prevention Protocol. Xtandi, Zytiga, Provenge.
Yasminelle™
The decision to prescribe Yasminelle should take into consideration the individual woman's current risk factors, particularly those for venous thromboembolism (VTE), and how the risk of VTE with Yasminelle compares with other combined hormonal contraceptives (CHCs). (from Drugs.com)
This stuff is bad news! Bayer has paid out over $1.6 billion in settlements to women who suffered detrimental side effects. Women likely died as a result of Bayer's dishonest advertising and regulatory capture.
Alternatives: The Rhythm Method is probably the most natural birth control solution. If a woman has a very consistent cycle, she can pretty reliably avoid pregnancy by avoiding sex during the times of the month that she is most fertile. The Lady-Comp is 93% effective, easier to use than hormonal birth control, and doubles as an alarm clock.
If you can't afford the nearly $500 LadyComp but want to use the Rhythm Method there's an app for that!
Alternative Drugs: Mercilon
Yasmin™
Drospirenone, also known as 1,2-dihydrospirorenone, is a steroidal progestin of the spirolactone group used in birth control pills and postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy pills. (from Drugs.com)
Alternatives: According to a 2007 BBC article, Fertility Awareness is shown to be 99.6% effective; which beats anything that ever comes out of the Trojan factory! The Kindara app makes this a whole lot easier! Although, personally I wouldn't trust an app alone with a +$250,000, 18-year decision! I recommend using the rhythm method in combination with natural herbal birth control.
Alternative Drugs: Dianette, Mercilon.
YAZ™
Yaz tablets contain a combination of drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol. Drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol prevent ovulation (the release of an egg from an ovary) and also cause changes in your cervical and uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to reach the uterus and harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus. (from Drugs.com)
Alternatives: Using a combination of herbs, awareness of the woman's cycle, and injaculation (male semen retention) you can get pretty close to 100% contraceptive effectiveness. Californian apricot seeds, Queen Anne's Lace, and Neem Oil are herbs that can be used episodically to inhibit implantation and prevent pregnancy.
Alternative Drugs: Levora, Trivora, Mercilon.
Bottom Line
I don't personally recommend all of the alternative products and brands mentioned; they may have their own side effects and downsides. Their common redeeming feature is that they are not manufactured by Bayer.
Before consuming anything a smart consumer will always spend at least 20 minutes Googling that product and seeing what other people on Youtube and forums have to say about their experiences with it.
In good faith, I want to mention that some of the alternatives I list are affiliate links, which means that if you buy these products via these links, I get paid a small commission. This partially justifies the significant chunk of time I committed to researching this article.
Thank you for voting with your dollars and choosing liberty!
To my surprise, the management of Medium.com actually censored this article. In the ensuing years as Bayer-Monsanto's sordid behavior has been exposed it's become more and more obvious that the woke Medium content moderation team are on the wrong side of history.