Complete Supplement & Dietary Protocol Guide

Your evidence-based biohacking blueprint for optimal cognitive function, physical performance, and mood stability

22 synergistic supplements + clean eating protocol = transformative health

Developed by Carter Prine, Computer Scientist

Start Your Journey

Protocol Overview

A comprehensive approach to biological optimization through strategic supplementation and clean eating

🎯 Targeted Approach

This protocol addresses multiple pathways simultaneously: mitochondrial optimization, neurotransmitter support, inflammation reduction, and nutritional deficiencies.

⏰ Strategic Timing

Supplements are taken at specific times to maximize absorption and synergistic effects. Morning for energy, midday for metabolism, evening for recovery.

πŸ’° Cost-Effective

$300-350/month with smart shopping strategies. Start with essentials and build up gradually. See our cost-saving tips for maximum value.

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

All 22 supplements at a glance with timing, benefits, and purchase links

Supplement Timing Dose Key Benefits Buy
Methylene Blue Morning As directed Enhanced mitochondrial energy, cognitive boost Buy β†’
Alpha GPC Morning 600mg Memory, focus, acetylcholine boost Buy β†’
Nicotinamide Riboside Morning 600mg NAD+ boost, cellular energy, longevity Buy β†’
Creatine Monohydrate Morning 3-5g ATP production, cognitive & physical performance Buy β†’
Beta-Alanine Morning 4 caps Endurance, fatigue delay Buy β†’
Nitric Oxide Booster Morning 3 caps Blood flow, circulation Buy β†’
Astaxanthin Morning 12mg Powerful antioxidant, eye & brain protection Buy β†’
Molecular Hydrogen AM & PM 1 tab each Selective antioxidant, recovery Buy β†’
Magnesium L-Threonate Morning 2 caps Brain magnesium, memory, calm Buy β†’
Rhodiola Rosea Morning 1000mg Stress adaptation, mood support Buy β†’
Ginkgo Biloba Morning 2 caps Brain circulation, memory Buy β†’
Tongkat Ali Morning 3 caps Testosterone support, stress modulation Buy β†’
Taurine Morning 2000mg Cardiovascular health, hydration Buy β†’
Vitamin D3 Morning 5000 IU Immune support, mood regulation Buy β†’
Krill Oil Morning 2000mg Omega-3s, brain health Buy β†’
Cordyceps-M Morning Tea 1/2 tsp ATP production, oxygen utilization Buy β†’
5 Defenders Morning Tea 1/2 tsp Immune system support Buy β†’
Lion's Mane Morning Tea 1/2 tsp Nerve growth factor, cognition Buy β†’
Probiotic + Enzymes Midday 1 cap Gut health, nutrient absorption Buy β†’
B-Complex Midday 1 cap Energy metabolism, neurotransmitters Buy β†’
Zinc Midday 1 cap Immune function, hormonal balance Buy β†’
Lutein + Zeaxanthin Midday 20mg Eye protection, blue light filter Buy β†’

Morning Protocol

Foundation for peak performance - taken within 30 minutes of waking

πŸŒ… Empty Stomach Protocol

All morning supplements should be taken on an empty stomach with hydrogen water prepared by dissolving one Dr. Mercola molecular hydrogen tablet. After supplements, consume only reverse-osmosis water (with added minerals to prevent mineral leaching effects) and 1-2 cups of organic Kabusheka green tea from Ocha & Co. until lunch.

🧠 Cognitive Enhancement Group

πŸƒ

Organic Kabusheka Japanese Green Tea

Premium grade β€’ 2-4 cups throughout day

🧠 Cognitive Benefits
  • L-Theanine (40-60mg/cup): Promotes alpha brain waves, reduces anxiety
  • EGCG (60-80mg/cup): Neuroprotective, enhances neuroplasticity
  • Natural Caffeine (30-50mg/cup): Gentle stimulation without jitters
  • Theobromine: Mild stimulant enhancing mood and focus
  • Catechins: Cross blood-brain barrier for direct neuroprotection
🌿 Why Kabusheka Superior
  • Shade-grown technique: 3-4 weeks pre-harvest shading boosts L-theanine by 40%
  • First flush quality: Youngest, most nutrient-dense leaves
  • Steam processing: Preserves delicate compounds vs. pan-fired
  • Umami-rich flavor: Sweet, complex taste without bitterness
  • Higher chlorophyll: Vibrant green color indicates nutrient density
⚠️ Why Japanese Tea is Superior

Avoid Chinese and Indian teas due to heavy metal contamination, pesticide residues, and lower nutrient content. Japanese tea offers superior quality, purity, and L-theanine levels.

Protocol Synergy: L-theanine enhances Alpha GPC focus effects, EGCG boosts Rhodiola's stress adaptation, and natural caffeine provides sustained energy without the crash of synthetic stimulants. Perfect complement to morning mushroom tea.
Buy Premium Kabusheka β†’
πŸ’™

Methylene Blue

Quantum Innovation Labs β€’ USP Grade β€’ As directed

⚠️ Critical Warnings: β€’ Do NOT take with SSRIs (risk of fatal serotonin syndrome)
β€’ Do NOT exceed 50-100mg daily
β€’ Will stain - handle carefully
β€’ If serotonin syndrome suspected, take Famotidine immediately
  • Bypasses mitochondrial Complex I/III for enhanced energy
  • Selective antioxidant targeting hydroxyl radicals
  • Cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection
Synergy: Amplifies effects of Nicotinamide Riboside for mitochondrial optimization
Buy Now β†’
🎯

Alpha GPC

Double Wood β€’ 600mg (2 capsules)

  • Crosses blood-brain barrier to increase acetylcholine
  • Enhances memory, focus, and attention
  • Supports learning and neuroplasticity
Synergy: Works with B-Complex for neurotransmitter production. L-theanine in Kabusheka tea creates calm focus.
Buy on Amazon β†’
⚑

Nicotinamide Riboside

Double Wood β€’ 600mg (2 capsules)

  • Efficiently raises NAD+ levels
  • Supports cellular energy and longevity
  • DNA repair and mitochondrial biogenesis
Synergy: Complements Methylene Blue for comprehensive mitochondrial support
Buy on Amazon β†’

πŸ’ͺ Physical Performance Group

πŸ‹οΈ

Creatine Monohydrate

Double Wood β€’ 3-5 grams

  • Increases ATP for muscle and brain
  • Proven cognitive benefits
  • Emerging research shows mood support
  • 5-15% improvement in complex cognitive tasks
Synergy: Excellent combination with Beta-Alanine for exercise performance
Buy on Amazon β†’
πŸƒ

Beta-Alanine

Nutricost β€’ 4 capsules

  • Increases muscle carnosine levels
  • Delays fatigue during high-intensity exercise
  • Buffers metabolic acids affecting cognition

Note: May cause harmless tingling sensation

Buy on Amazon β†’
🩸

Nitric Oxide Booster

Nutricost β€’ 3 capsules

  • Enhanced blood flow and circulation
  • Improved exercise performance
  • Better nutrient delivery to tissues
Synergy: Works with Ginkgo Biloba for comprehensive circulation support
Buy on Amazon β†’

πŸ›‘οΈ Antioxidant Protection Group

πŸ”΄

Astaxanthin AstaReal

Double Wood β€’ 12mg (1 capsule)

  • Most potent carotenoid antioxidant
  • Crosses blood-brain and blood-retinal barriers
  • Protects mitochondria from oxidative damage
Synergy: Enhances stability and absorption of Krill Oil omega-3s
Buy on Amazon β†’
πŸ’§

Molecular Hydrogen

Dr. Mercola β€’ 1 tablet AM & PM

  • Selective scavenging of harmful free radicals
  • Anti-inflammatory effects
  • Preserves beneficial ROS signaling
  • Nighttime recovery support (PM dose)
Synergy: Complements other antioxidants without interfering with beneficial oxidative signaling
Buy on Amazon β†’

🧩 Neurological Support Group

🧲

Magnesium L-Threonate

Life Extension Neuro-Mag β€’ 2 capsules

  • Only form proven to cross blood-brain barrier
  • Enhances memory and learning
  • Calming effects support sleep and anxiety reduction
  • Critical for synaptic plasticity

Note: Consider moving to evening for sleep benefits if desired

Buy on Amazon β†’
🌿

Rhodiola Rosea

Bronson β€’ 1000mg (2 capsules)

  • Adaptogenic stress resistance
  • Improves mental performance under stress
  • Clinically shown to reduce depressive symptoms
  • Modulates dopamine and norepinephrine
Synergy: Proven synergistic effects with Ginkgo Biloba. Enhanced by EGCG in Kabusheka tea.
Buy on Amazon β†’
πŸƒ

Ginkgo Biloba

Bronson β€’ 2 capsules

  • Improves cerebral circulation
  • Cognitive support and memory enhancement
  • Ensures nutrients reach all brain regions
Synergy: Enhanced effects when combined with Rhodiola Rosea
Buy on Amazon β†’

βš–οΈ Hormonal and Energy Support

πŸ’Š

Tongkat Ali LJ100

Double Wood β€’ 3 capsules

  • Supports healthy testosterone levels
  • Stress hormone optimization
  • Modulates cortisol response
  • Enhances motivation and vitality
Synergy: Works with Vitamin D3 and Zinc for hormonal balance
Buy on Amazon β†’
πŸ«€

Taurine

Double Wood β€’ 2000mg (2 capsules)

  • Cardiovascular protection
  • Cellular hydration and osmoregulation
  • Antioxidant effects
  • Essential when taking Beta-Alanine
Critical: Prevents taurine depletion from Beta-Alanine supplementation
Buy on Amazon β†’

🌟 Essential Nutrients

β˜€οΈ

Vitamin D3

Sports Research β€’ 5000 IU (1 softgel)

  • Immune regulation and bone health
  • Hormonal optimization
  • Strongly linked to mood regulation
  • Acts as a neurosteroid

Important: Consider adding Vitamin K2 for proper calcium utilization

Buy on Amazon β†’
🦐

Krill Oil

Bronson β€’ 2000mg (2 softgels)

  • Superior omega-3 absorption (phospholipid form)
  • Contains natural astaxanthin
  • Reduces neuroinflammation
  • Membrane fluidity for neurotransmitter signaling
Synergy: Astaxanthin content provides natural preservation and enhanced benefits
Buy on Amazon β†’

πŸ„ Morning Mushroom & Spice Tea

Prepare this powerful anti-inflammatory tea by mixing the following in hot water:

Real Mushrooms Pro Tip: Use code FIRST20P for 20% off + 15% Subscribe & Save. Cancel after first order to reuse!

Midday Protocol

Digestive and metabolic support - taken with lunch for optimal absorption

🍽️ With Food

Take the following supplements with lunch for optimal absorption and digestive support. Fat-soluble vitamins absorb better with dietary fats from your meal.

🦠

Probiotic + Digestive Enzymes

Physician's Choice β€’ 1 capsule

  • Supports healthy gut microbiome
  • Enhances nutrient absorption
  • Critical for supplement effectiveness
  • Microbiome-gut-brain connection
Critical: Essential for optimal absorption of all other supplements
Buy on Amazon β†’
πŸ…±οΈ

Vitamin B-Complex BioActive

Life Extension β€’ 1 capsule

  • Foundation for energy metabolism
  • Neurotransmitter synthesis support
  • Essential for serotonin and dopamine
  • Active forms (methylfolate, methylcobalamin)

Note: Choose methylated forms for better utilization

Buy on Amazon β†’
⚑

Zinc Picolinate

HorbΓ€ach β€’ 1 capsule

  • Immune function support
  • Protein synthesis
  • Hormonal balance
  • Wound healing

Important: Consider adding copper if taking long-term

Buy on Amazon β†’
πŸ‘οΈ

Lutein + Zeaxanthin

Sports Research β€’ 20mg (1 softgel)

  • Accumulates in retinal tissue
  • Macular protection
  • Filters harmful blue light
  • Supports visual acuity
Synergy: Works with morning Astaxanthin for comprehensive eye protection
Buy on Amazon β†’
πŸŒ™ Bedtime Protocol

Recovery and Repair

🧠

Lithium Orotate

HorbΓ€ach β€’ 130mg (5mg elemental lithium)

  • Neuroprotective and mood stabilizing effects
  • Supports healthy brain aging and cognition
  • May enhance sleep quality and stress resilience
  • Promotes neuroplasticity and BDNF expression
  • Synergizes with magnesium for calming effects
Evening Synergies: Works synergistically with Magnesium L-Threonate for enhanced sleep quality and memory consolidation. The orotate form provides superior bioavailability compared to lithium carbonate.
Buy on Amazon β†’
πŸ’§

Molecular Hydrogen (PM Dose)

Dr. Mercola β€’ 1 tablet dissolved in water

  • Nighttime antioxidant protection
  • Supports recovery processes
  • Neutralizes oxidative stress from the day
  • Enhances sleep quality

Same product as morning dose

Buy on Amazon β†’

Clean Eating Protocol

Foundation for optimal health through whole foods and elimination of inflammatory triggers

πŸ₯© Approved Protein Sources

  • Beef: Organic, regeneratively raised, grass-fed only
  • Best Value: HEB Thomas Farms Grass-Fed Ground Beef
  • Lamb: Grass-fed, organic preferred
  • Poultry: Pastured chickens and eggs only
  • Fish: Wild-caught sockeye salmon (occasional)

πŸ₯› Dairy Guidelines

  • Milk and Cheese: Organic only, ideally A2/A2 raw grass-fed
  • Butter: Grass-fed organic only
  • Yogurt/Kefir: Organic, grass-fed, full-fat only

A2/A2 dairy is easier to digest and less inflammatory than conventional A1 dairy

πŸ₯¦ Produce Standards

  • Fruits and vegetables are ideally organic to avoid toxic pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizers β€” known to cause chronic illness including cancer and gut microbiome imbalances, leading to mood disorders
  • Certain fruits and veggies are fine to purchase non-organic. Refer to the EWG "Clean 15" list
  • AVOID non-organic "dirty" produce. Refer to the EWG "Dirty Dozen" list
  • All grains must be organic. Grains are heavily sprayed with herbicides such as glyphosate, which interrupt critical metabolic pathways
  • Focus on seasonal, local produce when possible

πŸ₯‘ Cooking Fats (Complete Seed Oil Ban)

βœ… Approved cooking oils:

  • β€’ Organic grass-fed ghee
  • β€’ Grass-fed butter
  • β€’ Grass-fed tallow
  • β€’ Organic avocado oil
  • β€’ Organic coconut oil

❌ Completely avoid:

All seed oils including canola, soybean, corn, sunflower, safflower, and grapeseed oils. These are treated with toxic hexane and bleach and should never be considered food.

Comprehensive Benefits

How this protocol transforms your health through multiple synergistic pathways

😊 Mood Support and Mental Health Benefits

β–Ό

This protocol provides comprehensive support for mood and mental health through multiple evidence-based mechanisms.

Key Mood-Supporting Components

Neurotransmitter Production:
  • Alpha GPC increases acetylcholine, critical for mood regulation
  • B-Complex (methylated forms) are essential cofactors for serotonin and dopamine synthesis
  • Vitamin D3 acts as a neurosteroid, with deficiency strongly linked to depression
Stress Resilience and Adaptation:
  • Rhodiola Rosea clinically proven to reduce symptoms of stress and mild-to-moderate depression
  • Tongkat Ali modulates cortisol response and supports healthy stress adaptation
  • Magnesium L-Threonate calms the nervous system and supports GABA function
Mitochondrial and Energy Support:
  • Methylene Blue enhances mitochondrial function in brain cells
  • Nicotinamide Riboside addresses mitochondrial dysfunction often seen in depression
  • Creatine shown in studies to augment antidepressant response
Inflammation Reduction:
  • Omega-3s (Krill Oil) reduce neuroinflammation strongly associated with depression
  • Turmeric + Black Pepper powerful anti-inflammatory combination
  • Molecular Hydrogen selective antioxidant reducing oxidative stress linked to mood disorders
Important Considerations: β€’ Consider this a nutritional approach that addresses root causes
β€’ Identify a naturopathic doctor to treat holistically
β€’ Monitor progress and adjust as needed
β€’ The clean eating component is equally crucial for stable mood and energy

🧠 Cognitive Enhancement: The Nootropic Powerhouse

β–Ό

This protocol represents one of the most comprehensive cognitive enhancement stacks available, targeting multiple pathways for optimized brain function.

Executive Function & Focus Enhancement

The Acetylcholine System:
  • Alpha GPC (600mg) provides the most bioavailable choline for sharper focus
  • Kabusheka Green Tea Synergy: L-theanine promotes alpha brain waves for calm focus
  • Many users report feeling "mentally dialed in" within 30-60 minutes
Memory & Learning Optimization:
  • Lion's Mane powerfully stimulates nerve growth factor (NGF) production
  • Magnesium L-Threonate increases brain magnesium critical for synaptic plasticity
  • EGCG from Kabusheka tea promotes neurogenesis and enhances BDNF expression
Mental Energy & Processing Speed:
  • Methylene Blue acts as alternative electron carrier, speeding brain energy production
  • Creatine provides rapid ATP regeneration - 5-15% improvement in complex tasks
  • Green tea catechins enhance mitochondrial biogenesis

The Kabusheka Green Tea Advantage

Kabusheka green tea provides unique cognitive benefits through:

  • L-theanine (40-60mg per cup): Promotes alpha brain waves, reduces anxiety
  • EGCG (60-80mg per cup): Neuroprotective, enhances neuroplasticity
  • Caffeine (30-50mg per cup): Gentle stimulation without jitters
  • Theobromine: Mild stimulant that enhances mood and focus

Timeline for Cognitive Enhancement

  • Day 1-3: Subtle increase in mental energy and clarity
  • Week 1-2: Noticeable improvement in focus and mental endurance
  • Week 3-4: Enhanced memory formation and recall
  • Month 2-3: Significant improvements in complex cognitive tasks
  • Month 3+: Sustained high-level cognitive performance becomes baseline

πŸ”„ Key Synergies and Stacking Benefits

β–Ό

The Mitochondrial Optimization Stack

Methylene Blue + Nicotinamide Riboside + Creatine create a powerful combination for cellular energy production. This stack works through multiple pathways to enhance ATP production and mitochondrial efficiency.

The Cognitive Enhancement Stack

Alpha GPC + Lion's Mane + Rhodiola Rosea + Ginkgo Biloba provide comprehensive brain support through increased neurotransmitter production, enhanced nerve growth factor, improved circulation, and stress resilience.

The Exercise Performance Stack

Creatine + Beta-Alanine + Nitric Oxide Boosters + Taurine work synergistically to improve multiple energy systems, delay fatigue, enhance blood flow, and support recovery.

The Antioxidant Defense Network

Astaxanthin + Molecular Hydrogen + Turmeric + Lutein/Zeaxanthin provide multi-pathway antioxidant protection without interfering with beneficial reactive oxygen species needed for cellular signaling.

The Synergistic Stack Effect

  1. Foundation: Vitamins D3, B-Complex, and minerals correct deficiencies
  2. Energy Layer: Methylene Blue + NAD+ + Creatine + Green tea EGCG maximize ATP
  3. Neurotransmitter Layer: Alpha GPC + B-vitamins + L-theanine optimize signaling
  4. Protection Layer: Antioxidants + omega-3s + green tea polyphenols preserve gains
  5. Adaptation Layer: Adaptogens + L-theanine maintain performance under stress

Implementation Guide

Start gradually and build up to the full protocol for best results

Week 1: Foundation Phase

Start with these core supplements and teas:

  • Vitamin D3 (morning) - $15/month
  • Magnesium L-Threonate (evening) - $25/month
  • B-Complex (midday) - $10/month
  • Probiotics (with lunch) - $20/month
  • Kabusheka Green Tea (throughout day) - $12/month
  • Morning Mushroom Tea (Cordyceps, Lion's Mane, 5 Defenders + spices) - $45/month

Total starter cost: ~$127/month

Week 2: Energy Enhancement

Add these supplements:

  • Creatine Monohydrate - $10/month
  • Molecular Hydrogen - $30/month
  • Krill Oil - $25/month

Week 2 additions: +$65/month

Cumulative cost: ~$192/month

Week 3: Cognitive Support

Introduce nootropics:

  • Alpha GPC - $20/month
  • Rhodiola Rosea - $15/month

Week 3 additions: +$35/month

Cumulative cost: ~$227/month

Note: Lion's Mane already included in Week 1 mushroom tea

Week 4: Full Protocol

Add remaining advanced supplements:

  • Methylene Blue (use with caution) - $25/month
  • Nicotinamide Riboside - $35/month
  • Beta-Alanine - $15/month
  • Nitric Oxide Booster - $20/month
  • Astaxanthin - $25/month
  • Ginkgo Biloba - $15/month
  • Tongkat Ali - $30/month
  • Taurine - $12/month
  • Zinc (midday) - $8/month
  • Lutein + Zeaxanthin (midday) - $18/month

Week 4 additions: +$203/month

Full protocol cost: ~$430/month

With smart shopping: ~$300-350/month

πŸ’° Cost-Saving Strategies

πŸ›’

Amazon Subscribe & Save

  • Set up subscriptions for 5-15% discount
  • Cancel after first order to reuse new customer coupons
  • Stack with Prime Day sales for 20-40% savings
πŸ„

Real Mushrooms Strategy

  • Use code FIRST20P for 20% off
  • Add Subscribe & Save for additional 15%
  • Cancel immediately and reorder as "new customer"
  • Watch for Black Friday sales
πŸ₯©

Grocery Shopping Hacks

  • Check Manager's Special for 30-50% off
  • Shop Tuesday evenings for markdowns
  • Buy quarter/half cow shares
  • Build relationships at farmers markets
πŸ“…

Timing Your Shopping

  • Wednesday: New sales start
  • Sunday evening: Maximum markdowns
  • End of month: Quota deals
  • Prime Days: July & October

Troubleshooting & Support

Common issues and solutions for optimal results

🀒 Digestive Upset

  • Start with half doses and gradually increase
  • Take with more food or divide doses throughout day
  • Add digestive bitters or apple cider vinegar

😴 Sleep Disruption

  • Move Rhodiola and Methylene Blue to early morning (6-7 AM)
  • Ensure 12+ hours between morning dose and bedtime
  • Consider adding magnesium glycinate in evening

⚑ Beta-Alanine Tingling

  • Normal reaction, not harmful
  • Reduce to 2 capsules and slowly increase
  • Take with food to minimize sensation

πŸ˜“ Energy Crashes

  • Ensure adequate protein intake (0.8-1g per lb body weight)
  • Check thyroid function if persistent
  • Consider adding MCT oil to morning routine

πŸ“Š Optional Monitoring

Blood Testing (Every 3-6 months):

  • Vitamin D levels (target: 50-80 ng/mL)
  • B12 and folate status
  • Comprehensive metabolic panel
  • Testosterone (if taking Tongkat Ali)

Cycling Protocols:

  • Adaptogens (Rhodiola, Tongkat Ali): 1 week off every 6-8 weeks
  • Methylene Blue: Consider 2 days off per week
  • No cycling needed for vitamins, minerals, or amino acids

Long-Term Success:

  • Track energy levels (1-10 scale daily)
  • Monitor sleep quality and duration
  • Assess cognitive performance regularly
  • Note mood and stress resilience changes