'Son’s blood, red lights, and $2 million': Bryan Johnson’s fight to defy aging
Produced by: Manoj Kumar
Immortality Dream
Bryan Johnson, a 47-year-old tech entrepreneur, spends $2 million annually on his "Blueprint" initiative, a rigorous health regimen aimed at reversing aging and achieving optimal longevity.
Daily Routine
Johnson wakes at 5 a.m., exercises for 90 minutes, eats his last meal at 11 a.m., and is in bed by 8:30 p.m. His intense routine includes a strict vegan diet, regular MRIs, and over 100 supplements daily.
Plasma Exchange
Johnson undergoes plasma transfusions with his son Talmage, donating and receiving blood plasma within his family to boost longevity—a controversial but central element of his regimen.
Red Light Therapy
A red-light therapy helmet, used to stimulate hair growth, is part of his arsenal of unconventional therapies, alongside regular hyperbaric oxygen sessions and cold exposure techniques.
Elite Metrics
His fitness levels rival elite athletes: a max heart rate of 189 bpm (like a 31-year-old), 75th percentile muscle oxygen saturation, and muscle mass growth of 7% after six months of his program.
Scientific Oversight
Longevity consultant Dr. Oliver Zolman guides his protocols, which include gene therapy typically reserved for severe conditions, sparking both intrigue and ethical debates.
Unyielding Schedule
Johnson adheres to strict hydration and eating timelines, stopping fluids at 4 p.m. and undergoing regular MRIs, claiming he’s spent more time in scanners than anyone worldwide.
Emotional Drive
His motivation stems from past struggles with mental health, his desire to maximize his time with family, and the belief that "100 years is not enough" with loved ones.
Public Skepticism
Experts question the scientific validity of his methods and the commercialization of his protocols. Critics argue clinical trials may better serve longevity research than Johnson’s self-experimentation.