Why This Matters to Us
As longevity enthusiasts, we are always seeking innovative ways to slow the aging process and extend healthy lifespans. Bryan Johnson, a venture capitalist known for spending millions on anti-aging efforts, recently revealed groundbreaking results from Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). HBOT works by delivering pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber, boosting oxygen levels in the blood and tissues. Johnson’s experience with HBOT offers insights into its potential application for combatting aging-related changes in the body, from inflammation to brain health.
By understanding the science behind HBOT, we gain valuable knowledge about advanced mechanisms of age reversal and how they could integrate into future longevity protocols.
The Detail
What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?
HBOT is a medical treatment requiring patients to breathe pure oxygen in a sealed, high-pressure chamber. The increased pressure enables higher amounts of oxygen to dissolve into the blood, tissues, and fluids than under normal conditions. The therapy is already FDA-approved for conditions like wound healing and vision loss, but its potential in reducing aging markers is a newer area of interest.
Over the span of 90 days, Bryan Johnson underwent 60 sessions of HBOT, with each session lasting around 90 minutes. The sessions alternated between 100% oxygen inhalation and brief breaks. Johnson called this therapy one of the most effective treatments he’s experienced.
Key Results from HBOT
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Reduced Inflammation
Johnson revealed that HBOT eliminated systemic inflammation from his body, pushing his markers below detectable levels. Chronic inflammation is a key driver of aging—sometimes referred to as "inflammaging." Tests showed his C-reactive protein metabolites (CRPm), an indicator of inflammation, were in the lowest 1% of tested individuals. Essentially, this therapy reversed a major hallmark of aging. -
Reversed Telomerase Decline
Telomeres, the protective caps on the ends of DNA strands, naturally shorten as we age. Reduced activity of telomerase, the enzyme that maintains telomeres, accelerates aging and contributes to cellular damage. Johnson’s telomerase levels, however, resembled those of a 12-year-old, hinting at possible biological age reversal. Though his telomere length results are still pending, this improvement in telomerase function is a promising sign. -
Boosted Muscle Oxygen and Blood Vessel Growth
HBOT is known to improve the body’s vascularisation, or the ability to form new blood vessels. Johnson’s levels of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), which stimulates blood vessel growth, increased by 300%. Enhanced blood flow also doubled his skeletal muscle oxygen levels during exercise, improving his muscles' efficiency and health. -
Improved Gut Health
The gut microbiome plays a pivotal role in overall health and longevity. Johnson studied his gut bacteria before and after HBOT and found significant improvements. Beneficial short-chain fatty acids (like SCFAs and n-butyrate) increased by 250% and 290%, respectively, while a key microbe, Akkermansia muciniphila, increased by 1000%. These changes suggest HBOT not only enhances gut health but also strengthens barriers against disease. -
Brain Aging Reversal
In Alzheimer’s patients, tau protein accumulates in the brain, contributing to memory loss and cognitive decline. Johnson’s tau protein levels dropped 28.6%, from 0.14 pg/mL to 0.1 pg/mL, reflecting a reversal of age-related brain changes. This reduction in tau markers indicates potential benefits for those at risk of neurodegenerative diseases. -
Younger Skin
Skin aging is another visible marker of overall health. Johnson reported that his skin’s biological age decreased by one year (from 39 to 38), with observed improvements in wrinkles, pores, and collagen levels. These results align with prior studies suggesting that HBOT reduces senescent cells in the skin.
Affording Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
While the results are intriguing, HBOT is far from accessible to the average person. In the United States, one session costs between $342 and $1,112, meaning Johnson’s 60 sessions could cost up to $66,720. Johnson himself purchased a chamber for $100,000, making it a long-term investment beyond reach for most people.
However, Johnson hopes to make these therapies more available by launching “Don’t Die Certified” clinics, which promise high standards of measurement and protocol. Though pricing for these clinics has not been disclosed, increased demand for HBOT could potentially lower costs.
A Free Alternative: Breathing Practices
For those unable to afford HBOT, breathing techniques that activate the parasympathetic nervous system may be an alternative. These techniques reduce inflammation and stress while improving longevity. Studies suggest slow breathing at 4.5-6 breaths per minute optimises immune function, cognitive performance, and stress management. While these practices may not match the efficacy of HBOT, they could offer similar anti-aging benefits without the cost.
In Summary
Bryan Johnson’s experience highlights the promising potential of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for addressing multiple markers of aging, including inflammation, brain health, and telomerase function. While cost remains a barrier, these results open new doors for anti-aging science and longevity enthusiasts. HBOT is not yet a universal solution, but its success in Johnson’s case suggests it could be a foundational treatment in future longevity protocols.
For more details about Bryan Johnson’s journey and HBOT, visit his post on X.