Biohacking Weekly 46: What Fuels a 38-Year-Old Tennis Champion?
September 18, 2025This is Biohacking Weekly - A curated news roundup designed to help you increase your longevity, improve healthspan and access OptimOZ product picks.
IN THIS EDITION
1. Berberine shows promise for metabolic health
2. The science of sun protection
3. The supplement regimen of a tennis legend
4. Study ties coffee to longer, healthier life
5. NAD+ decline and how to recharge it
1. 🌿 Berberine Emerges as a Metabolic Health Ally
A new 2025 Frontiers in Pharmacology study highlights berberine , a plant-derived compound, as an effective aid for metabolic syndrome, a condition tied to high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol, and excess belly fat. Analyzing 12 clinical trials, researchers found berberine lowered fasting blood sugar, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, waist size, and BMI, surpassing placebo in most measures.
Short-term use (under 90 days) delivered the strongest results, with minimal side effects. Berberine stands out as a natural, evidence-based option for those looking to boost metabolic function and support overall healthspan.
👉 Read the full study on Frontiers
2. 🥵 Debunking Sun Protection Myths With Science
SPF 50 sunscreens block approximately 98% of UVB rays, which cause sunburn, but real-world efficacy drops due to inadequate application. Both UVA and UVB rays contribute to skin cancer and aging, debunking the myth that only UVB is harmful. Research also shows UV rays penetrate clouds variably, and shade from beach umbrellas offers only about SPF 5 protection.
Experts advise using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with strong UVA protection, reapplying every two hours in high UV. And yes, darker skin still needs sunscreen to prevent burns and cancer.
👉 Read the full article on BBC
3. 🎾 Supplements Keeping the Tennis GOAT in the Game at 38k
At 38 years old, tennis legend Novak Djokovic reached the 2025 US Open semifinal before bowing out to Carlos Alcaraz. Even in defeat, his ability to compete at this level speaks to the way he has optimized recovery and longevity.
In his interviews, Djokovic has highlighted the role of supplements in his routine — especially magnesium , which he takes before bed to support sleep quality and deeper recovery. He also leans on Vitamin C for immune support, along with targeted use of electrolytes and CoQ10 to aid hydration and cellular energy.
👉 Watch the full video on GQ Sports
4. ☕️ 47,000 Women Show Coffee May Support Healthy Aging
Could your daily brew be a longevity booster? A landmark study following 47,000 nurses for nearly five decades found that women who drank coffee regularly were 13% more likely to reach age 70+ in good health — free from chronic disease and with strong physical and mental function.
Moderate-to-high coffee intake (about 7 cups per day) showed the greatest benefit, even after accounting for diet, exercise, and smoking habits. While balance is key, the findings highlight coffee’s role in supporting healthy aging and vitality.
👉 Read the full article on The New York Times
OptimOZ offers a curated selection of premium specialty roasts from Bulletproof and Kimera Koffee. Choose from pure, high-quality beans or blends infused with cutting-edge nootropics — designed to fuel sharper focus, sustained energy, and peak performance.
5. ⚡ NAD+ Levels Drop with Age — Here’s How to Support Them
NAD is a coenzyme found in every body, turning food into energy within the mitochondria. This process powers metabolism, supports cell repair, and fuels essential functions. In its active form, NAD+ accepts electrons, and supplements can provide this boost — though diet and lifestyle remain crucial.
NAD+ levels can drop by 50% by middle age, accelerated by stress, poor sleep, and environmental factors. Supplementation with NAD+ can be good for supporting memory, insulin sensitivity, and DNA repair, but its benefits are maximized when combined with nutrient-rich foods, antioxidants, probiotics , quality sleep, and stress management.
👉 Read the full article on NutraIngredients-USA
🔦 Biohacking Weekly Highlights
🌿 Berberine for Metabolic Health
Berberine lowered blood sugar, cholesterol, waist size, and BMI in 12 trials — short-term use (<90 days) showed strongest results with minimal side effects.
🥵 Sun Protection Myths Debunked
Both UVA & UVB cause skin cancer/aging; SPF 50 blocks ~98% UVB but real-world use underperforms — apply broad-spectrum sunscreen, reapply every 2 hrs, and remember even darker skin needs protection.
🎾 Djokovic’s Longevity Stack
At 38, Djokovic credits magnesium (for sleep), vitamin C, electrolytes, and CoQ10 with supporting recovery and energy at elite level.
☕ Coffee & Healthy Aging
In 47,000 women, regular coffee drinkers were 13% more likely to age past 70 in good health, with strongest benefits at ~7 cups/day.
⚡ NAD+ Decline With Age
NAD+ drops ~50% by midlife; supplements plus diet, sleep, and stress management can support metabolism, DNA repair, and brain health.
🔥 Product Top Picks
🔍 Dive Deeper Into Related Topics