A Doctor’s Guide to Biohacking Tools

As an internal medicine doctor deeply fascinated by the intersection of technology and health, I’ve explored various biohacking tools and devices designed to optimize health, performance, and well-being. Biohacking, or the quest to tweak your biology for better living, has gained momentum, propelled by advancements in technology and a growing interest in personal wellness. Here are some of my favorite biohacking tools and tracking devices that might just revolutionize the way you approach your health.

1. Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)

A Continuous Glucose Monitor is a game-changer for managing diabetes, weight, and energy levels. By providing real-time feedback on how different foods affect blood glucose levels, it empowers individuals to make informed dietary choices. It’s not just for those with diabetes; it’s a window into your metabolic health, offering insights that can lead to more personalized nutrition. This should be prescribed by your medical doctor and the decision to use one should be made in partnership with your internist.

2. Eight Sleep Mattress

Sleep is foundational to health, and the Eight Sleep Mattress is at the forefront of optimizing sleep quality. This smart mattress tracks sleep patterns, regulates temperature, and even offers sleep coaching. By analyzing your sleep data, it provides actionable insights to improve sleep quality, which is crucial for recovery, performance, and overall health.

3. Sauna

Regular sauna use has profound health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, detoxification, and stress reduction. It’s a form of passive heat therapy that has been linked to longevity and reduced risk of several chronic conditions. Incorporating sauna sessions into your routine can be a potent tool for relaxation and health optimization.

4. Cold Plunge (Although I Don’t Use It, my husband is a raving fan)

While I personally haven’t incorporated cold plunges into my routine, the benefits cannot be ignored. Cold exposure therapy can enhance recovery, boost mood, and improve circulation. It’s a practice embraced by many, including my dear husband, for its invigorating effects, promoting resilience both physically and mentally.

5. Oura Ring

The Oura Ring is a compact, powerful tool for tracking sleep, activity, and recovery. It offers detailed insights into your sleep architecture, daily activity levels, and readiness to perform. Its precision and convenience make it an excellent tool for anyone looking to dive deeper into their health metrics.

6. At-Home Blood Pressure Machine

Monitoring blood pressure at home is crucial for those managing hypertension or at risk of cardiovascular diseases. An at-home blood pressure machine provides the convenience of regular monitoring, helping to track the effectiveness of lifestyle changes or medications on blood pressure levels. It’s an essential tool in the proactive management of heart health and preventing strokes. Keeping a blood pressure log and sharing it with your dedicated internist can have profound impacts on your overall health goals.

These tools and devices represent just the tip of the biohacking iceberg. As technology advances, we’re gifted with increasingly sophisticated means to monitor and improve our health. However, it’s important to approach biohacking with a balanced perspective, integrating these tools into a holistic health strategy that includes proper nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being.

In our quest for optimal health, these biohacking tools can be powerful allies, but they’re most effective when used in conjunction with professional medical advice and a healthy lifestyle. Remember, technology is a tool to enhance, not replace, the foundational pillars of good health.

To those embarking on this exciting journey of biohacking and self-discovery, I encourage you to explore, experiment, and find what works best for you, always with an eye towards balance and holistic wellness.

In health and innovation,

Your Guide, Dr Avianne Hospedales