What is Biohacking?
When we think of hacking, our minds may go to phones, computers, databases, or something else technological. What about hacking your own body? This may sound like a strange concept, but it’s quickly growing in popularity. Biohacking is the act of changing one’s chemistry and physiology through science and experimentation to increase energy levels and vitality.
How Did Biohacking Develop?
The term “biohacking” has been known since 1988 as a concept of do-it-yourself biology. This concept is simply the pursuit of biology by amateurs or those who are not experts in the field of science. In 2005, makers and programmers in San Francisco caught wind of the concept and helped nurture the approach with demonstrations and experiments. As experiments expanded, they grew in popularity and DIY biology had taken off exponentially.
Biohacking and Regenerative Medicine
Stem cell therapy, prolotherapy, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and VSEL treatments are all considered forms of biohacking, as these regenerative treatments promote the activation of growth factors in the body that rebuild tissues, leading to improved overall health. Dr. Greenberg’s latest form of treatment, VSEL, supports the reversal of DNA damage from aging, which turns back the biological clock three years on average and promotes organ regeneration and repair. This makes VSEL therapy the single most potent anti-aging stem cell treatment available.
It is crucial to note that any substance, autologous or not, being injected into one’s body should be administered in a safe environment and under a legal, ethical framework. Greenberg Regenerative Medicine maintains those standards.
Common Types of Biohacking
Keeping the definition of “biohacking” broad allows for several different types of biohacking methods to fit the mold. The most common styles include:
Wearable Technology
Fitbits, Apple Watches, Oura Rings, and other similar pieces that track your calories burned, and remind you to take steps and drink water, all fall in the realm of biohacking. These watches, rings, apps, and other trackers are greatly useful for those who are starting their fitness journey or who lead busy lives and need notifications.
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes are more traditional alterations that we may not think of as biohacking. These changes can include taking dietary supplements, finding a favorable workout routine, eating healthy, meditating, and more.
Exploratory Types of Biohacking
While the common forms of biohacking are already well integrated into society and are deemed normal by most standards, there are more exploratory types that are not as openly advertised. These include:
Genetic Engineering
The term “genetic engineering” is often associated with agriculture, where scientists modify the genetic makeup of crops in an attempt to yield more products, increase quality, decrease cost, and enhance food security. In the case of humans, genetic engineering can also apply.
It is based on a technology known as “clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats,” or CRISPR. To put it simply, CRISPR is used to find specific bits of DNA inside a cell for scientists to alter them. The types of alterations include disruptions, deletions, and corrections. This level of gene editing is great for the advancement of curing genetic conditions and even the further development of organ transplants.
Implant Technology
While this technology has yet to be mainstream, it is on track to be the future of biohacking, as we currently have the means to execute it. Implant technology includes microchips, bionic limbs, mind-controlled electronic devices, and more.
A massive advantage of microchips includes a high accuracy for identification, which is increasingly crucial with the amount of fraud, hacking, and identity theft occurring around the world. Bionic limbs and mind-controlled electronic devices can showcase the true potential of one’s brain activity. For instance, quadriplegics will have a greater capacity to interact with their environment once more.
The multitude of biohacking methods shares a commonality – the idea that humans can alter their bodies and minds. By doing so, we may have the potential to become stronger and smarter with time.
Are you interested in biohacking your body to improve the quality of your life? Schedule a consultation with Greenberg Regenerative Medicine’s team to determine a plan that is best suited for your needs.
