JRE #1120 - Ben Greenfield

5/22/2018

Joe Rogan Podcast #1120 – Ben Greenfield: Topics & Summary

This podcast with Ben Greenfield, a self-proclaimed “biohacker” and fitness enthusiast, dives into a wide array of health, fitness, and nutrition practices, ranging from the mainstream to the fringe. Rogan and Greenfield discuss everything from traditional approaches to fitness and nutrition to unconventional remedies and cutting-edge therapies. Underlying themes include the pursuit of optimal health and longevity, the balance between science and personal experimentation, and the importance of self-awareness in navigating the vast and often contradictory world of health and wellness.

1. Ant Extract as a Pre-Workout Supplement:

Greenfield takes ground-up black ant powder as a pre-workout boost, claiming it gives him energy.
He cites the “doctrine of signatures” as a potential reason for its effectiveness, suggesting that ants’ energetic nature could translate to human strength.
The ant powder is sourced from ginseng roots, where ants are known to inhabit.
While Greenfield acknowledges the potential placebo effect, he attributes the energy boost to a chemical compound in the ants.

2. The Heart is Not a Pump:

Greenfield discusses Dr. Thomas Cowan’s book “Why Your Heart Is Not a Pump,” which challenges the traditional understanding of cardiovascular function.
Cowan argues that the heart’s primary function is not to pump blood but to create a vortex flow, facilitated by the shape of the chest cavity.
This theory emphasizes the role of the sympathetic nervous system, mineral depletion, and dehydration in heart disease.
Greenfield finds Cowan’s argument intriguing, acknowledging its non-mainstream nature and limited acceptance within mainstream scientific circles.

3. Plant Identification App:

Greenfield uses an app called “Flower Checker” to identify plants, particularly for their edible and medicinal properties.
He shares a cautionary tale about mistaking a brassica plant for wild asparagus, leading to an unexpected nicotine overdose.
This highlights the importance of accurate plant identification and the potential dangers of foraging without proper knowledge.
Greenfield suggests the app’s use of live botanists for identification offers greater accuracy than AI-powered applications.

4. Catch and Release Fly Fishing:

Greenfield discusses a recent fly fishing trip with his children, emphasizing the “thrill of the chase” as the primary motivation.
He contrasts catch-and-release fishing with bow hunting, where the goal is to harvest the animal for consumption.
Greenfield acknowledges the ethical dilemma of catching and releasing fish, particularly considering the stress and potential harm involved.
He highlights the educational value of fishing for children, providing an opportunity to connect with nature and learn about wildlife.

5. Spartan Races and Functional Fitness:

Greenfield shares his experience with Spartan races, both as a commentator and a participant.
He highlights the event’s focus on functional fitness, requiring participants to perform a variety of physical tasks beyond traditional running, swimming, and biking.
Greenfield emphasizes the benefits of Spartan races for building strength, power, and endurance, particularly for individuals transitioning from endurance-based activities like triathlon.
He also discusses the evolving format of Spartan races, including stadium-based events, which offer a more accessible and controlled experience.

6. Backcountry Hunting and Physical Exertion:

Greenfield describes the physical demands of backcountry hunting, highlighting the need for endurance, strength, and agility.
He recounts his experience hunting sheep in Hawaii, emphasizing the importance of stealth and persistence in getting close enough for a shot.
Greenfield contrasts sheep with axis deer, which are known for their speed and alertness, presenting greater challenges for hunters.
He acknowledges the inherent difficulty of hunting, emphasizing that if it were easy, it wouldn’t be a rewarding experience.

7. Dry Aging Meat:

Greenfield details his process for dry aging beef, transforming tough, gamey meat into a tender and flavorful product.
He uses a modified refrigerator with a temperature controller and humidifier to create an optimal dry aging environment.
Greenfield explains that the process involves the breakdown of muscle fibers and the development of a flavorful crust, which is then trimmed before consumption.
He contrasts dry aging at home with the more expensive approach of using dedicated dry aging refrigerators or walk-in coolers.

8. Jaw Strengthening and Oral Exercise:

Greenfield discusses the concept of strengthening the jaw through chewing, citing a YouTube video promoting this practice.
He explores the potential benefits of chewing on tough substances, like leather or mastic gum, for improving jaw structure and bone density.
Greenfield mentions the use of jaw-strengthening mouthpieces as a way to reduce perceived exertion during exercise and enhance performance.
He emphasizes the role of fascia in generating force, suggesting that tightening the jaw can positively impact overall muscle performance.

9. Mastic Gum for Saliva Production and Digestive Health:

Greenfield describes mastic gum, a resinous substance used for jaw strengthening and saliva production.
He highlights its potential benefits for digestive health, particularly for addressing H. pylori infections.
Greenfield emphasizes the importance of choosing mastic gum in its natural form, as capsules may not offer the same benefits.
He acknowledges the unpleasant taste of mastic gum, but suggests its potential benefits outweigh the discomfort.

10. Exosomes as Cellular Signaling Molecules:

Greenfield explains exosomes as tiny vesicles released by cells, serving as messengers within the body.
He describes his recent exosome treatment, combining exosomes with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and bone marrow aspirate.
The exosomes were sourced from placental cells, carefully processed to eliminate any foreign DNA.
Greenfield believes exosomes hold potential for regenerative medicine and anti-aging, highlighting their role in cell-to-cell communication.

11. Stem Cell Therapy and Anti-Aging:

Greenfield discusses his experience with stem cell therapy, specifically using bone marrow aspirate and exosomes.
The procedure involved extracting bone marrow from his iliac crest, mixing it with exosomes and ozone, and then injecting it throughout his musculoskeletal system.
He describes the procedure as a “full-body stem cell makeover,” emphasizing its potential for anti-aging and enhanced recovery.
Greenfield acknowledges the high cost and non-mainstream nature of stem cell therapy, but highlights its potential benefits.

12. Rock Tape for Joint Support and Injury Prevention:

Greenfield explains the use of Kinesio tape, commonly known as rock tape, for supporting joints and preventing injuries.
He describes how the tape is applied to the body to provide support and enhance muscle performance.
Greenfield uses rock tape extensively, particularly for preventing injury during intense workouts and races.
He highlights the tape’s ability to reduce inflammation and improve joint stability.

13. Concussion Treatment and Stem Cell Potential:

Greenfield discusses his recent concussion, highlighting various therapies he used for recovery, including ketones, DHA, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and PEMF therapy.
He explains that stem cells can enhance recovery from TBI, but they don’t readily cross the blood-brain barrier.
Greenfield describes using mannitol to increase blood-brain barrier permeability, allowing stem cells to reach the brain and promote healing.
He raises the possibility of exosomes crossing the blood-brain barrier, suggesting potential benefits for concussion recovery.

14. Endogenous Stem Cell Production:

Greenfield explores methods for boosting endogenous stem cell production, emphasizing fasting as a key strategy.
He differentiates between caloric restriction and time-restricted feeding (intermittent fasting), highlighting the benefits of extended fasting periods.
Greenfield recommends 12-16 hour daily fasts and occasional 24-hour fasts, aiming for a compressed feeding window rather than strict calorie restriction.
He emphasizes the importance of protein cycling, incorporating periods of lower protein intake to promote a balanced metabolic state.

15. The Carnivore Diet and its Potential Drawbacks:

Greenfield expresses reservations about the carnivore diet, citing limited scientific evidence and potential health concerns.
He highlights the potential for accelerated aging, hormone imbalances, and nutrient deficiencies from a restrictive plant-based diet.
Greenfield acknowledges the anecdotal evidence of some individuals finding success with the carnivore diet, but emphasizes the importance of individual experimentation.
He suggests that protein cycling and a more balanced approach, incorporating a variety of foods, may offer greater long-term benefits.

16. Hormesis and the Benefits of Stress:

Greenfield discusses the concept of hormesis, suggesting that mild stress can trigger adaptive responses in the body, promoting health and longevity.
He emphasizes the importance of regular exposure to heat (saunas) and cold (cold showers) as hormetic stressors.
Greenfield cites research exploring the potential benefits of hot yoga for triggering a similar hormetic response.
He argues that plant-based compounds, often viewed as toxins by carnivore advocates, actually provide hormetic benefits, promoting cellular adaptation and resilience.

17. Blood Flow Restriction Training:

Greenfield describes blood flow restriction training (BFR) using tourniquet-like devices (CATs) to restrict blood flow during bodyweight exercises.
He explains that BFR training can enhance muscle growth and strength, even with lighter weights, due to the increased lactic acid production.
Greenfield highlights the potential benefits of BFR for seniors, offering a way to maintain muscle mass without high-impact exercises.
He suggests BFR training can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive fitness program, particularly for individuals seeking to maximize muscle growth and strength.

18. Coffee Enemas and Glutathione Production:

Greenfield describes coffee enemas as a controversial but potentially beneficial practice for cleansing the colon and boosting glutathione production.
He explains that the coffee stimulates liver and gallbladder function, enhancing detoxification and antioxidant production.
Greenfield highlights the potential for coffee enemas to promote peristalsis and alleviate constipation.
He emphasizes the importance of using a safe and clean administration method, avoiding plastic containers.

19. NAD Therapy for Anti-Aging:

Greenfield discusses NAD therapy as a powerful anti-aging intervention, focusing on its ability to increase NAD levels, which play a crucial role in cellular function and longevity.
He describes the various methods of NAD administration, including IV infusions, injections, and oral supplements.
Greenfield emphasizes the effectiveness of intravenous NAD, despite its discomfort, for achieving optimal results.
He shares his personal experience with NAD therapy, noting improvements in energy levels, sleep quality, and telomere length.

20. The Importance of Individualized Approaches:

Greenfield repeatedly emphasizes the importance of individual experimentation and finding what works best for each person.
He acknowledges the vast genetic variability among individuals, highlighting the need for personalized approaches to diet, exercise, and supplementation.
Greenfield cautions against adopting rigid diets or protocols without considering individual needs and preferences.
He stresses the importance of ongoing monitoring and self-awareness, adjusting practices based on individual responses and feedback.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“It’s like DMT, but you’re on fire and getting punched in the gut at the same time and you feel like your heart’s gonna explode.” – Greenfield vividly describes the discomfort of NAD injections.
“I don’t know why I’m like this with a steak, but I still need to dip it in something.” – Greenfield humorously reveals his preference for dipping steak in stone mustard.
“You could take a shower in Diet Coke and you wouldn’t get sticky because there’s that that’s such a small amount of artificial it’s like a dusting of artificial sweeteners.” – Greenfield shares a surprising fact about the minimal amount of artificial sweeteners in Diet Coke.
“The only thing that’s been able to clear that up is meat.” – Greenfield describes a friend’s daughter who found relief from autoimmune issues with a meat-only diet, highlighting the potential for individual dietary sensitivities.
“I just study how to keep the poison out.” – Greenfield humorously explains his focus on health and nutrition, contrasting it with his disinterest in other aspects of life.