Supplement (noun) – 

“something added to complete a thing, supply a deficiency, or reinforce or extend a whole”

Biohacking (noun) –

“an instance or manner of self-improvement through strategic experimentation with technology, drugs, hormones, diet, etc.”

The definition of the word supplement highlights something very important that I believe many people who participate in supplement and biohacking trends seem to miss; notice the key words, “added” and “whole”. The emphasis on the notion that whatever “thing” (let’s say person, for this instance) takes or consumes a supplement or engages in a “biohack”, is already “whole” to begin with. But what exactly does “whole” refer to in the definition of supplement? In my eyes, this is the most important word in the definition, as it elucidates the point that a person should not use supplements to make up for something that is fundamental to their health, which is missing or to placate for improper lifestyle or dietary habits that drive the person to seek a supplement or “biohack” in the first place.

Given the viral effect of the internet on establishing trends, too many people in the health space can become trigger-happy, due to our flaw of being influenced by those whom we see as authority figures, into buying into marketing campaigns, tips, tricks, protocols, programs, courses, etc., that may be unnecessary if the person simply addresses the underlying driver/s of the issue that motivates them to make unfound purchases in the hopes of relieving the discomfort that ails them. Some people believe that if they find the perfect stack of supplements or “biohacking” tools and gadgets, they will finally have their health utopia, or panacea, per say. I personally believe this kind of approach is analogous to a cat chasing its own tail, as the human body is simply too intelligent to be “hacked” because the most fundamental factors that sustain good health are ancient, rooted in primitive nature and behaviour that doesn’t cost hundreds, if not thousands of dollars, and that we can readily access.   

I have mentioned this previously, to be wary of gurus and practitioners who exhibit a quasi-messiah complex, making unfounded promises and claims that something they promote may “cure” or “transform” your health. I am not implying by any means that supplements or biohacking gadgets are unnecessary, as these things can make drastic improvements to a person’s health who is already “whole”, or in other words, has the fundamentals to sustain good health in place. Maybe ensuring you get adequate sunlight per day, engage in some form of physical activity to keep the body mobile, maintain some semblance of friendly relationships outside of home so you don’t become isolated, and try to sustain a diet that is mostly prepared at home and is diverse, might be the first things you should adopt before you consider buying that powdered formula or pricey gadget.