The best biohacking devices and wearables. We tested them for you.
The best biohacking devices and wearables. We tested them for you. As the world of health and wellness continues to evolve, cutting-edge technology is taking center stage—helping us optimize our bodies, sharpen our minds, and push our personal boundaries. From wearable trackers that dig deep into our sleep cycles to handheld monitors that decode our metabolic data, biohacking devices have become key allies in our quest for better performance, longevity, and overall well-being. In this article, we’ve sifted through the latest gadgets and gear, tested them thoroughly, and curated a selection of the best products out there. So get ready to discover the tools that can help you fine-tune your life and elevate your body’s natural capabilities like never before. Join our Online Workshops: Sleep optimization Whoop Strap 4.0 The Whoop Strap 4.0 is a cutting-edge wearable device designed to provide in-depth insights into sleep, recovery, and overall performance. Its advanced features and personalized analytics make it a standout tool for sleep optimization. Personalized Insights: Whoop’s ability to tailor recommendations based on individual data ensures that users receive guidance specific to their unique sleep patterns and recovery needs. Holistic Approach: By integrating sleep tracking with recovery and strain analysis, Whoop offers a comprehensive view of how sleep impacts overall performance and health. User-Friendly Design: The strap’s minimalist, screen-free design encourages 24/7 wear, ensuring continuous data collection without distractions. Actionable Data: Whoop translates complex metrics into understandable scores and recommendations, empowering users to make meaningful changes to their sleep routines. Oura Ring Generation 3 The Oura Ring Generation 3 is a discreet and sophisticated wearable designed to provide comprehensive insights into sleep patterns, recovery, and overall health. Its advanced sensors and user-friendly interface make it a leading choice for individuals aiming to optimize their sleep and well-being. Accuracy: The Oura Ring’s precise sensors provide reliable data on sleep stages and quality, enabling users to make informed adjustments to their routines. User-Friendly Interface: The accompanying app presents data in an accessible manner, offering actionable insights and personalized recommendations for sleep improvement. Discreet Design: Its ring form factor ensures comfort and minimal intrusion, allowing for continuous wear without the bulk of traditional wrist-worn devices. Holistic Health Monitoring: By integrating sleep data with activity and physiological metrics, the Oura Ring offers a comprehensive view of health, emphasizing the critical role of sleep in overall well-being. Stress and mood regulation Apollo Neuro The Apollo Neuro is an innovative wearable device designed to help users manage stress and regulate mood through gentle vibrations that stimulate the nervous system. Developed by neuroscientists and physicians, it aims to improve overall well-being by enhancing the body’s resilience to stress. Non-Invasive Approach: Unlike pharmacological interventions, Apollo Neuro offers a drug-free method to manage stress and mood, reducing the risk of side effects. Ease of Use: Its wearable design ensures that users can incorporate stress management into their daily routines seamlessly, whether at work, home, or during travel. Scientific Foundation: Developed based on extensive research in neuroscience, the device’s efficacy is supported by clinical studies demonstrating its positive impact on stress resilience and HRV. Personalization: The ability to tailor programs to individual needs allows for a customized experience, enhancing the effectiveness of interventions for stress and mood regulation. Muse S Headband The Muse S Headband is an advanced wearable device designed to enhance meditation practices and monitor sleep patterns. By utilizing electroencephalography (EEG) technology, it provides real-time feedback on brain activity, heart rate, breathing, and body movements, aiming to improve mental well-being through guided meditation and sleep tracking. Enhanced Meditation Experience: By providing real-time feedback on mental states, the Muse S helps users identify when their minds wander, facilitating a more effective meditation practice that can lead to reduced stress and improved mood. Improved Sleep Quality: The device’s sleep tracking capabilities allow users to monitor and analyze their sleep patterns, enabling them to make informed adjustments to enhance sleep quality, which is closely linked to mood regulation. Personalized Insights: With detailed data on physiological responses, users can gain a better understanding of their stress triggers and develop personalized strategies to manage stress and maintain emotional balance. Metabolic and nutrition tracking Lumen The Lumen Metabolism Tracker is a pioneering handheld device that analyzes your breath to determine your body’s current fuel utilization—whether carbohydrates or fats. By measuring the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in your exhalation, Lumen provides personalized nutritional guidance aimed at enhancing metabolic flexibility and overall health. Enhanced Metabolic Flexibility: By consistently monitoring and adjusting your diet based on Lumen’s feedback, you can train your body to switch more efficiently between burning fats and carbohydrates, a key component of metabolic health. Weight Management Support: Users have reported weight loss and improved metabolic function by adhering to Lumen’s personalized nutritional guidance, which aligns with individual metabolic states. Behavioral Accountability: The immediate feedback provided by Lumen encourages adherence to dietary plans and fosters greater mindfulness regarding food choices and their metabolic impacts. Nutrisense CGM The Nutrisense Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) is an innovative tool designed to provide real-time insights into your blood glucose levels, empowering you to make informed decisions about your diet and lifestyle. By utilizing a minimally invasive sensor placed on the upper arm, Nutrisense offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and optimizing metabolic health. Real-Time Feedback: Nutrisense allows users to see immediate effects of dietary choices and lifestyle habits on glucose levels, facilitating prompt adjustments for better metabolic control. Behavioral Insights: By identifying personal glucose triggers, users can modify behaviors to maintain stable blood sugar levels, reducing risks associated with metabolic disorders. Data-Driven Personalization: The combination of continuous data and expert support enables a customized approach to nutrition and health, moving away from generic advice to strategies that work for the individual. Physical performance Garmin Forerunner 945 The Garmin Forerunner 945 is a premium GPS smartwatch tailored for dedicated athletes, particularly runners and triathletes. It offers an extensive array of features designed to monitor and enhance physical performance, making it a standout choice for those seeking comprehensive training
Teaser from the Book: Foreverolimus “The Rise of Biohacking and Senolytics”
Teaser from the Book: Foreverolimus “The Rise of Biohacking and Senolytics” At its heart, biohacking is a philosophy that values self-improvement and self-discovery and that provides people with an active, hands-on approach to shaping their biological fortunes. Biohacking practitioners apply different strategies—from gene editing and nootropics supplements to intense biofeedback and lifestyle changes—with their main goal of modifying physiological processes and increasing overall well-being. The rapid development of technology paired with a rapidly growing change towards customized healthcare makes this field not only exceptionally promising but also breaks new and unprecedented ethical grounds. Digging into biohacking would not be exhaustive without considering not just the scientific and technological aspects, but also how these practices affect individuals and society. Biomarkers as the measurable indicators of the biological status or the condition is the core of modern medicine. Biomarkers are a combination of molecular and cellular/physiological measurements that give clear evidence of the health status of a person. These markers comprise various types such as genomics, proteomics, radiomics, and clinical, which diagnostically, prognostically, and therapeutically have tremendous significance. Biomarkers are very important in science because they help identify diseases at an early stage, personalize the treatment, and determine accurately the efficacy of the treatment. Because the specific biomarkers enable the detection of diseases more accurately, doctors not only can forecast more precisely but also choose the best therapy approaches. Furthermore, biomarkers help not only to develop new treatments but also to identify drug targets and to observe the results of the treatment in clinical trials. CRISPR’s use in biohacking initiatives arouses both enthusiasm and ethical issues. On the other hand, Personalized genetic interventions hold great promise of curing genetic diseases, boosting bodily function and even enhancing cognitive ability. However, CRISPR’s accessibility and its use outside the traditional laboratory setting also raises fundamental questions about the aspect of safety, equity, and the unforeseeable consequence of gene editing method. Discussion of the Ethical Questions Raised by DIY Genetic Engineering: An important ethical problem of DIY genetic engineering is safety. Although CRISPR technique provides never seen before precision, there is still a possibility of off-target effect and unintentional outcomes, especially when it is in virtue of unqualified DIY biohackers. The lack of strong oversight and regulatory frameworks for DIY genetic engineering further aggravates existing concerns against these unintended genetic mutations, ecological disruptions, and the heightened risk. Join our Online Workshops: Subscribe to the FOREVEROLIMUS Newsletter Sign up to join 500,000+ other subscribers and receive regular emails on neuroscience, health and science-related topics.
Using wearable technology in biohacking
Using wearable technology in biohacking Biohacking is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of practices aimed at improving health, cognitive function, and overall health and well-being. At its core, biohacking is about understanding the complex systems of the human body and finding ways to optimize them through lifestyle changes, supplementation, and cutting-edge technology. Wearable technology has revolutionized the biohacking, providing users with access to real-time health data. Join our Online Workshops: Understanding wearable technology Wearable technology includes devices that are worn on the body and equipped with sensors to monitor various physiological parameters. These devices collect data that can be used to track physical fitness levels, monitor sleep patterns, assess stress, and even detect early signs of potential diseases.. The evolution of wearable technology has been driven by the integration of sensor technologies, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, making it more precise, accessible, and user-friendly. From smartwatches to implantable devices, wearables offer a wide array of tools for biohackers to track, monitor, and optimize their health. Types of wearable technology used in biohacking Fitness trackers and smartwatches Fitness trackers and smartwatches are among the most popular forms of wearable technology used in biohacking. Devices like Fitbit, Garmin, and Apple Watch track a wide range of metrics, including steps, calories burned, heart rate, and sleep patterns. They enable users to set personalized goals, monitor progress, and receive customized coaching. Advanced models even provide ECG readings and blood oxygen saturation, making them ideal for biohackers focused on improving fitness and cardiovascular health. A study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that using a fitness tracker can lead to a significant increase in daily step count and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Sleep tracking devices Quality sleep is critical for health and performance, and sleep tracking devices help biohackers optimize their sleep patterns. Devices like the Oura Ring and Withings Sleep Analyzer monitor sleep cycles. They provide detailed data on deep sleep, REM sleep, sleep disturbances, heart rate variability, and body temperature. This data helps users make informed decisions on sleep hygiene, bedtime routines, and other interventions to improve sleep quality. Glucose monitors for diet optimization For biohackers focusing on diet optimization, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) like the Abbott Freestyle Libre and Dexcom G6 are invaluable tools. These devices provide real-time data on blood glucose levels, allowing users to understand how their diet and lifestyle impact blood sugar. By monitoring blood sugar fluctuations, individuals can identify trigger foods, optimize their meal timing, and prevent the onset of metabolic disorders such as diabetes. ECG and blood pressure monitors Wearables such as the KardiaMobile and Omron HeartGuide offer ECG and blood pressure monitoring, which are essential for individuals interested in monitoring cardiovascular health. Biohackers can use this data to detect early signs of heart disease, manage hypertension, and assess the impact of fitness routines on cardiovascular function. Heart rate variability (HRV) monitors Heart rate variability (HRV) monitors, such as the Polar H10 and Firstbeat Bodyguard 2 are used to assess stress levels and overall health. HRV refers to the variation in time between consecutive heartbeats, and a high HRV is generally associated with better cardiovascular health and resilience to stress. By monitoring HRV, individuals can gain insights into their body’s response to various stressors, such as exercise, work, and relationships, and take proactive steps to manage their stress levels. EEG headsets for brainwave monitoring For those looking to enhance cognitive function, EEG headsets like the Muse or Emotiv Insight, monitor brainwave activity. These devices use advanced sensors to measure electrical activity in the brain, providing users with real-time feedback on their mental states, such as focus, relaxation, and meditation. Implantable devices Some biohackers take wearable technology a step further with implantable devices. These are typically small devices implanted under the skin to monitor various biometrics continuously. While more invasive, implantable devices like NFC chips or smart tattoos offer a more integrated, long-term solution for health monitoring. Smart clothing Smart clothing wearables like Hexoskin or OMsignal, also known as e-textiles or intelligent garments, integrate electronic components such as sensors, actuators, and microcontrollers directly into fabrics. These wearables can monitor a range of physiological and biomechanical parameters, including heart rate, muscle activity, breathing patterns, and movement dynamics. Benefits of using wearable technology in biohacking Personalized health monitoring and data analysis Wearable technology provides biohackers with highly personalized health data. Devices collect real-time information that can be used to track vital signs, sleep patterns, and physical activity. This allows users to tailor their biohacking interventions to their unique needs, providing more precise results. Real-time feedback for immediate adjustments Wearables give users real-time feedback, allowing for immediate adjustments to their lifestyle or routine. For example, a drop in heart rate variability (HRV) could prompt a biohacker to reduce stress, while poor sleep data might encourage adjustments in bedtime habits or room conditions. Goal tracking and motivation enhancement Many wearables offer goal-tracking features, enabling biohackers to set and measure specific health and performance targets. Whether it’s improving step count, achieving optimal sleep cycles, or reducing blood pressure, these devices offer motivation through progress tracking and regular feedback. Early detection of health anomalies By continuously monitoring key health metrics, wearables can detect anomalies before they become serious problems. Devices capable of measuring heart rate, ECG, or blood glucose levels can alert users to potential issues such as arrhythmias, hypertension, or blood sugar fluctuations, enabling early intervention. How to choose the right wearable for your biohacking goals? Identify your biohacking objectives Compare features of popular wearable devices Budget considerations User-friendly interfaces and data accessibility Accuracy and reliability of the data collected Battery life and charging requirements Device’s compatibility with your existing ecosystem of apps and devices Durability, comfort, and aesthetics Tips for integrating multiple devices As your biohacking toolkit expands, you may find yourself using multiple wearables simultaneously to gain a more comprehensive understanding of your health and performance. To ensure seamless integration and avoid data silos, prioritize devices that offer robust API support and third-party app integrations.
Teaser from the Book “Longevity”
Teaser from the Book “Longevity” While investigating the aging process and attempting to treat its sometimes-incurable effects, scientists identified a number of vital pathways and molecular targets that seem very promising for pharmacological approaches in longevity. These pathways, involved in cellular metabolism homeostasis, energy balance control, stress management and longevity become a very attractive target for novel pharmaceutics focused on making sure the longer lives of humans would be healthy. Among these targets, the mTOR pathway can be considered the most outstanding. mTOR is a key controller of cell growth, metabolism, and protein production that integrates nutrient signals, growth factor signaling and signalosome activated by cell stress. Lifespan extension and healthy age-related decline have been ascribed to inhibition of mTOR activity in model organisms, justifying this pathway as a likely anti-aging target. Another group of NAD+-dependent deacetylases, known as sirtuins, has also attracted much interest. Sirtuins, which function in different processes of the cells such as DNA repair and metabolism also act to extend lifespan among various model organisms. In preclinical studies, Sirtuins activators like resveratrol have been shown promise as anti-aging therapeutics. The other important actor in the cellular energy balancing act and metabolic regulation is the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). When activated, AMPK allows cells to become more resistant to the stress resulting from energy deprivation and increases the rate of ATP generation while inhibiting ATP-consuming processes. It provides evidence that pharmacological activation of AMPK increases lifespan and enhances metabolism in model systems, thus suggesting a possible avenue for anti-aging interventions. The role of the insulin/IGF-1 signaling pathway is related to controlling metabolism, growth, and aging. Decreased activity through this pathway has been linked to prolonged lifespan and improved health span in model organisms, encouraging the use of interventions that target modifications of insulin/IGF-1 signaling as a potential avenue for antiaging strategies. Autophagy, a process by which cells degrade and recycle various aged or defective cellular species to maintain homeostasis as being integral to the aging process. Increased autophagy by pharmacological approaches is associated with extra lifespan and health span in some model organisms. The role of the mitochondria in cellular energy production and metabolism decreases with age to explain this process. Various approaches that can be used to maintain mitochondrial function or even boosts Mito Biogenesis are prospective anti-aging interventions. The phenomenon of cellular senescence defined by irreversible cell cycle arrest and with a different spectrum of secretory phenotype plays an important role in making physiological changes associated with aging and age-related diseases. Specifically, elimination or SASP modulation through senolytic agents can increase longevity thus leading to healthy aging. The unveiling of important pathways and targets that play critical roles in regulating aging has provided promising opportunities for the creation of pharmacological intervention products, which have potential to promote a healthy ageing phenomenon as well as increase longevity. In addition, investigation of these pathways and modulation of them may give opportunity to change the attitude towards aging as well as age-related diseases opening new perspective for future where elderly become not only inevitable but manageable. d) Promising Pharmacological Agents To achieve the goal of prolonging human lifespan and improving healthspan, the scientists have ventured into pharmacology by investigating several drugs that may show unique properties. This mission has resulted to the search of various important substances, each having distinct mechanisms and benefits. These include rapamycin, metformin, resveratrol, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD +) precursors, senolytics and calorie restriction mimics. Decoding the mechanisms and consequences of these pharmacological agents is deemed essential in clarifying potential Utility for human well-being and longevity. Join our Online Workshops: Subscribe to the FOREVEROLIMUS Newsletter Sign up to join 500,000+ other subscribers and receive regular emails on neuroscience, health and science-related topics.