Is Methylene Blue Really Safe to Take?

About this video

• Video Title: Is Methylene Blue Really Safe to Take?
• Channel: The Enhanced Man
• Speakers: [No speaker names provided in the transcript]
• Duration: 00:10:18

Overview

This video discusses the safety and effectiveness of Methylene Blue as a mitochondrial supplement. It covers its mechanisms of action, potential health benefits, appropriate dosing strategies, and how it can be stacked with other supplements. The speaker also shares personal experiences and insights on its use.

Key takeaways

• Mechanisms and Benefits: Methylene Blue is a redox agent that can improve mitochondrial energy production, reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) at low doses, and act as a pro-oxidant at high doses. It may upregulate BDNF, promote mitochondrial biogenesis, slow down tau protein aggregation in Alzheimer's models, enhance memory, and improve cerebral oxygen utilization.
• Dosing and Hormesis: Low doses are beneficial for reducing ROS and improving mitochondrial efficiency. High doses can be pro-oxidant, and while some hormetic stress is good, excessive use can blunt adaptation. The speaker uses 5-10 mg doses, depending on exercise type, and avoids daily use to allow for adaptation.
• Supplement Stacking: Methylene Blue can be combined with supplements like L-arginine, citrulline, or low-dose tadalafil to support nitric oxide production. It can also synergize with Alcar (acetyl-L-carnitine) and Urolithin A/monophosphate for mitochondrial function, but these should not be taken late in the day due to potential dopamine-related effects on sleep.
• Cycling and Safety: The speaker cycles Methylene Blue for 3 months on and 1 month off, partly due to its pro-oxidant effects and the use of other antioxidants. Taking too much can lead to blue urine, indicating saturation and waste. While it has mild MAOI properties, serotonin syndrome is rare, especially at the doses discussed.
• Personal Experience and Monitoring: The speaker uses Methylene Blue for cognitive benefits during workouts and to support memory formation, noting subtle improvements. They monitor mitochondrial function markers and cycle off the supplement to allow the body to adapt.