RFK Jr, the nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services in the second administration of President Trump, seems to have a growing interest in longevity. His actions have sparked a flurry of online interest after he was seen on camera adding a blue substance to his drink while mid-flight. While the exact identity of the substance remains unknown, the ‘long live’ community, made up of individuals with an avid interest in prolonged life, is abuzz with the possibility that RFK Jr might be partaking in their lifestyle choices.
The speculation that has dominated the digital sphere revolves around the blue substance believed to be methylene blue, a term one internet user called ‘the biohacking community’s best-kept secret.’ Methylene blue is a synthetic substance that finds applications as a dye, a medicine, a stain for cell detection, and a tool for identifying pathogens. It was originally developed as a textile dye before taking up the mantle of the first synthetic drug used in medical science.
Came into medicinal attention in the 1890s, methylene blue’s potential therapeutic applications were first recognized for treating malaria. The primary use of this blue-hued substance today is in the treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH), where it plays a role in enhancing blood flow and assuaging symptoms like breathlessness. Either consumed orally or administered through an injection, today, methylene blue is used for treating a condition called methemoglobinemia, in which the blood lacks the capacity to transport oxygen throughout the body.
The use of methylene blue has transcended beyond its stated medical purposes, thanks to the endorsement of celebrities, wellness influencers, and biohackers. They have propagated methylene blue as a wonder substance that can enhance energy levels, boost metabolism, augment cognitive function, and potentially be a weapon in the fight against ageing. Despite these claims, concrete evidence remains sparse.
Preliminary research about methylene blue suggests that it possesses antioxidant properties that can diminish levels of toxic proteins in the brain. This characteristic places it under potential consideration for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. These findings have directed significant attention toward methylene blue within the biohacking community, generating further interest online.
Despite the potential benefits extrapolated from the early research, health professionals have voiced concerns over the unsupervised use of methylene blue. Renowned Canadian physician Dr. Jon used his TikTok platform to caution followers about the drug, stating that it could cause life-threatening complications for individuals on antidepressant medication.
Listing the common side effects of methylene blue, the Cleveland Clinic mentions the discoloration of urine to a blue shade, feeling of nausea, instances of vomiting, skin discoloration, experiencing bouts of dizziness, and recurring headaches.
Another possible risk associated with methylene blue consumption is the potential for an increased risk of cancer, especially when ingested in large doses, according to some studies. This is why health authorities and experts continue to emphasize the importance of medical consultation before the consumption of methylene blue, especially for people under medication, those with kidney problems, or individuals with a glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.
Special caution should be exercised by pregnant or breastfeeding women concerning the consumption of methylene blue, due to the lack of adequate research related to its effects on this specific demographic.
It seems that the allure of methylene blue is growing within the wellness community and amongst biohackers. Its diversified application range broadens from traditional disease management treatment to the controversial claims of fighting against ageing and boosting cognitive functions.
In the realm of biohackers, longevity enthusiasts, and wellness influencers, methylene blue continues to receive advocacy online. Such promotion might lead potential users to overlook the medicinal nature of the substance and dismiss the importance of professional medical advice before incorporating it into their routines.
However, it should be highlighted that despite the rising fame and the endorsements, methylene blue remains a substance with minimal conclusive evidence supporting its use beyond medically approved conditions. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a cautious stance about its consumption, primarily when used outside its approved medical purposes.
As the ‘long live’ community and other interested parties continue to speculate, the essential fact remains that RFK Jr’s consumption of the blue substance is unconfirmed. Yet, his actions have brought methylene blue into the wellness conversation, stirring curiosity and intrigue across different platforms.
With various speculations, endorsements, warnings, and cautions, methylene blue draws a thin line between interest and concern within the wellness and health communities. As it continues to gain attention, it remains of utmost importance for individuals to seek medical advice before venturing into its use- either for approved medicinal purposes or exploratory biohacking endeavors.