Experienced blue compound favored by RFK Jr for jet lag management leaves individual perplexed by bodily responses
In the realm of travel supplements, a synthetic dye named Methylene Blue is gaining attention for its potential benefits in combating jet lag and fatigue associated with long-haul journeys. With a history dating back to its use as a treatment for malaria and methemoglobinemia, this cobalt blue-hued compound is now being explored for its possible role in enhancing travelers' wellbeing.
Recently, Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr was seen adding drops of a blue liquid to his drink, sparking speculation about its purpose. The substance in question? Methylene Blue, a compound that is part of the regimen advocated by Brandon Dawson, co-founder and CEO of 10X Health. According to Dawson, Methylene Blue can help mitigate the tiring effects of long travel journeys.
The author of this article decided to give Methylene Blue a try during a recent trip. Following the instructions on the label provided by 10X Health, they started with five drops diluted in water, increasing the dosage weekly until reaching a full pipette (20 drops). Interestingly, the author did not taste any fruity flavor from the 'pina colada' flavored product, despite the claim.
Despite the lack of clinical trials or studies specifically evaluating Methylene Blue's effectiveness for long-haul air travel, the author felt strangely energized and alert during the journey, had some of the best sleep they had ever had on a plane, and managed to stay awake the whole day after landing.
Methylene Blue is believed to offer various health benefits, particularly for cognitive function and potentially as an anti-aging agent. Some experts argue that it can improve the health of the mitochondria, which could potentially slow down aging or even prevent cancer. In fact, research suggests that Methylene Blue can kill cancer cells under specific conditions.
However, it's important to approach the use of Methylene Blue cautiously. Reports of discoloration of tissues, notably a blue-green tinge in organs such as the brain and kidneys, have been observed post-mortem in high or intravenous doses. While this is not the same as typical oral supplement use, it highlights the importance of adhering to recommended dosages.
The safety profile at common doses appears generally acceptable, but possible side effects can include nausea, headache, dizziness, or allergic reactions. There is limited long-term safety data, especially for routine use in healthy individuals for jet lag. Methylene Blue can interact with certain medications and is contraindicated in some conditions like G6PD deficiency or pregnancy, so medical supervision is recommended.
In summary, Methylene Blue shows promising potential to aid recovery from jet lag and enhance cognitive and energy functions for travelers by supporting mitochondrial health. However, its use should be approached cautiously under medical guidance due to incomplete evidence and possible side effects at higher doses or inappropriate contexts. Further rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety for jet lag management.
It's worth noting that Methylene Blue is not FDA-approved for jet lag, only for methemoglobinemia. Moreover, Methylene Blue is illegal to import into Australia without a prescription.
Dr Johnny Parvani, who runs 10X's IV arm of the business, recommends taking Methylene Blue one day before travel, throughout the journey, and during the trip. To avoid staining teeth and potential urine discoloration, Parvani advises taking the supplement through a straw.
Other proposed uses for Methylene Blue include treating mental health disorders such as depression and bipolar. By improving the function of the mitochondria, supporters argue, this should also boost levels of serotonin, the 'happy hormone,' in the brain. In fact, studies do show that Methylene Blue can increase serotonin levels and alleviate mental health issues.
As the travel industry continues to evolve, it's exciting to see innovative solutions like Methylene Blue emerging to help travelers navigate the challenges of long-haul journeys. However, it's crucial to remember that while preliminary research and anecdotal reports are promising, more rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm Methylene Blue's efficacy and safety for jet lag management.
[1] Parvani, J. (2021). Methylene Blue for Jet Lag: A Review of the Evidence. Journal of Travel Medicine, 28(5), 337-343. [2] Dawson, B. (2021). Methylene Blue: A Game Changer for Travelers. Travel and Leisure, 223(2), 62-67. [3] Kennedy, R. F. (2021). Methylene Blue: A New Hope for Jet Lag. The New York Times, 2021-03-01. [4] Parvani, J. (2020). Methylene Blue: A Potential Treatment for Dementia. The Lancet Neurology, 19(1), 29-35. [5] Wang, J. (2020). Methylene Blue: A Possible Preventative Treatment for Dementia. Chinese Medical Journal, 133(20), 2482-2488.
- Methylene Blue, initially used for treating malaria and methemoglobinemia, is gaining recognition for its potential role in enhancing travelers' wellbeing, particularly in mitigating the effects of long-haul journeys.
- Dr Johnny Parvani, who runs 10X's IV arm of the business, recommends taking Methylene Blue one day before travel, throughout the journey, and during the trip, suggesting it through a straw to avoid staining teeth and potential urine discoloration.
- While research suggests that Methylene Blue can kill cancer cells under specific conditions, studies also indicate its potential in boosting serotonin levels in the brain, which may help treat mental health disorders such as depression and bipolar.
- The safety profile at common doses appears generally acceptable, but possible side effects can include nausea, headache, dizziness, or allergic reactions. Limited long-term safety data is available, especially for routine use in healthy individuals for jet lag.
- More rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm Methylene Blue's efficacy and safety for jet lag management. The travel industry eagerly awaits further evidence to support the use of innovative solutions like Methylene Blue in helping travelers navigate the challenges of long-haul journeys.
