Hey Mama! We see you juggling all the things, and we’re here to make life a little easier. If you love podcasts but don’t always have the time to dive into hours of episodes, we’ve got your back! In this episode of The Gabby Reese Show: Get More Energy and a Sharper Mind from Methylene Blue with Dr. Scott Sherr, we’ve rounded up the top takeaways to give you a head start.
The Power of Methylene Blue: 20 Key Takeaways from Gabby Reese’s Interview with Dr. Sherr
Methylene blue is emerging as a powerful tool for health, longevity, and performance, but its benefits go beyond just athletes and biohackers. This century-old compound is now being recognized for its ability to support brain function, boost energy, and combat oxidative stress—all critical factors for busy parents, professionals, and individuals juggling work, family, and personal health. Women, in particular, may find methylene blue beneficial for hormonal balance, mental clarity, and stress resilience, while families exploring immune health, metabolic support, and cognitive enhancement could also see its advantages.
Originally developed as a malaria treatment, methylene blue is now being studied for its role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases, supporting gut health, and improving mitochondrial function—key components for maintaining long-term vitality. In this post, we’ll explore 20 essential takeaways from experts on how methylene blue works, who it benefits, and how to use it effectively for energy, recovery, and overall well-being.
1. What is Methylene Blue?
Methylene blue is a synthetic compound first developed in the 1800s as a textile dye but later discovered to have medicinal benefits. It was the first synthetic drug registered by the FDA in 1897 and has been used for over a century in various medical applications. “This little-known compound is making waves in health, performance, and recovery,” as Dr. Sherr expert explained.
2. Mitochondrial Support: The Cellular Powerhouse
Methylene blue improves mitochondrial function by enhancing ATP (energy) production. It acts as an electron donor in the mitochondria, ensuring that cells continue generating energy efficiently, even under stress. “It helps with energy production more holistically than any other compound we could find,” the guest noted, highlighting its unique ability to both boost energy and detoxify mitochondria simultaneously.
3. Detoxification Benefits: Reducing Oxidative Stress
Beyond energy production, methylene blue neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS), which cause cellular damage. Too much oxidative stress can accelerate aging, inflammation, and chronic diseases. “Most energy-boosting compounds create oxidative stress, but methylene blue is unique because it supports detoxification at the same time,” Dr. Sherr explained.
4. Neurocognitive Performance: A Brain Booster
Methylene blue has been studied for its potential to enhance brain function, improve memory, and sharpen focus. Clinical research suggests that a 16 mg dose can improve cognitive performance, especially in aging populations. “Most people who take it notice an immediate uptick in focus and clarity,” Sherr said, suggesting it could be a game-changer for students, professionals, and older adults.
5. Historical Use: From Malaria to Modern Medicine
Initially developed as a malaria treatment, methylene blue was used by World War II pilots in the Pacific to prevent infections. Soldiers noticed their urine turned blue, leading to songs about its effects. While overshadowed by antibiotics in the 1950s, its antimicrobial properties remain valuable today, especially against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
6. Modern Medical Applications: From Depression to Alzheimer’s
Recent studies suggest methylene blue could help neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and increase serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels makes it a promising alternative for depression. “The first antipsychotics were actually derived from methylene blue,” Dr. Sherr pointed out, underlining its mental health benefits.
7. Athletic Performance: Enhancing Endurance and Strength
Athletes use methylene blue to boost endurance, delay fatigue, and improve oxygen utilization. Since it mimics oxygen at the cellular level, it helps muscles generate energy more efficiently. “We have athletes who refuse to train without it because it keeps their heart rate up longer without as much strain,” Dr. Sherr shared.
8. Endurance & Recovery: A Secret Weapon for High-Performance Athletes
Methylene blue may improve VO2 max (a measure of oxygen efficiency), helping endurance athletes push beyond limits. One case study found an ultramarathoner improved his race time by three hours while eliminating exercise-induced diarrhea by taking 32 mg of methylene blue every four hours. “It’s a game-changer for long-distance training,” Sherr remarked.
9. Gut Health & Inflammation: Supporting Digestive Function
High-performance athletes (and women) often suffer from leaky gut syndrome, where intestinal permeability increases due to stress. Methylene blue may protect gut lining integrity, especially when paired with glutamine supplementation. “Many athletes don’t realize their gut issues are draining their performance,” Dr. Sherr explained.
10. Anti-Aging & Longevity: Mitochondrial Repair for Lifespan Extension
Longevity researchers are exploring methylene blue’s role in slowing cellular aging and repairing damaged mitochondria. Given that 94% of Americans have some level of metabolic dysfunction, supporting mitochondrial health is crucial. “Methylene blue has the potential to be a major tool in longevity science,” Sherr emphasized.
11. Dosing Guidelines: Finding the Right Amount
The ideal methylene blue dose varies depending on the user’s health goals. Low doses (4–16 mg daily) optimize mitochondrial function, while higher doses (50 mg or more) are reserved for medical conditions. “If your urine isn’t turning blue, you may need to increase the dose,” Dr. Sherr suggested, as urine color can indicate absorption.
12. Safe Usage & Side Effects: Blue Urine and More
Methylene blue is generally safe, but side effects include blue urine, blue stools, and (in very high doses) blue tears. Some people may experience mild nausea or dizziness if they take too much. “The blue pee is harmless, but it’s definitely a surprise the first time,” Sherr joked.
13. Pairing with Red Light Therapy: A Synergistic Effect
When combined with red and near-infrared light, methylene blue enhances mitochondrial function even further. Many users report an energy boost when using both together. “Light therapy plus methylene blue is one of the most potent performance hacks we’ve seen,” Sherr said.
14. Stress & Mental Health Benefits: Regulating Neurotransmitters
Methylene blue acts as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), meaning it prevents the breakdown of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. This may help people struggling with depression, anxiety, or chronic stress. “It’s like a natural antidepressant without the side effects of pharmaceuticals,” Dr. Sherr explained.
15. Travel & Altitude Benefits: Beating Jet Lag and High-Altitude Fatigue
Since methylene blue enhances oxygen efficiency, it’s useful for air travel and high-altitude adaptation. Frequent travelers take it before flights to counteract the effects of cabin pressure. “We recommend it to visitors coming to Colorado to help them adjust to the altitude faster,” Dr. Sherr noted.
16. Optimizing for Daily Use: When and How to Take It
Some people take methylene blue daily for chronic health conditions, while others use it on-demand for performance optimization. Many biohackers time it with workouts, fasting, or mental tasks for maximum impact. “It works best when used strategically based on individual goals,” Dr. Sherr advised.
17. Interaction with Other Supplements: What to Pair It With
Methylene blue works well with magnesium, selenium, and B vitamins, all of which support mitochondrial function. However, it may interact with SSRIs, so those on antidepressants should consult a doctor. “Pairing it with the right nutrients enhances its effects,” Sherr explained.
18. Biohacker & Functional Medicine Interest: Growing Popularity
Methylene blue is rapidly gaining traction in biohacking and functional medicine circles due to its versatility. It’s now considered a foundational tool for mitochondrial health, longevity, and cognitive enhancement. “It’s a secret weapon that’s finally coming into the mainstream,” Sherr noted.
19. Methylene Blue for Immune Support: Potential Antiviral Properties
Some studies suggest methylene blue has antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it a potential immune support tool. While not a replacement for antibiotics, it may help reduce infections naturally. “It was historically used for malaria, and we’re rediscovering its antimicrobial effects,” Dr. Sherr said.
20. Future Research & Potential: The Next Frontier in Medicine
Scientists are actively studying methylene blue’s potential applications for chronic fatigue, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and metabolic disorders. More clinical trials are needed, but early findings are promising. “We’re just scratching the surface of what this compound can do,” Dr. Sherr concluded.
How Gabby Reese Uses Methylene Blue for Performance & Recovery
Podcast host Gabby Reese has incorporated methylene blue into her routine to optimize endurance, recovery, and overall health. Along with her husband, legendary big-wave surfer Laird Hamilton, she has explored how this powerful compound can enhance energy levels, oxygen efficiency, and stress resilience.
Here are some key ways Gabby Reese uses methylene blue in her daily life:
✅ Pre-Workout Boost & Endurance Training – Gabby takes methylene blue before cardiovascular workouts to improve oxygen utilization and sustain energy. Laird tested a 50 mg dose before a 5-hour surf session and noticed less muscle soreness and faster recovery.
☀️ Sunlight Activation for Maximum Effect – She times her methylene blue intake before sun exposure, as red and near-infrared light enhance its mitochondrial benefits. This method helps optimize energy production and cellular function.
Recovery & Stress Management – Gabby acknowledges that physical exertion and daily life stress can impact recovery. By supporting mitochondrial function, methylene blue helps reduce oxidative stress and improve resilience to physical and mental fatigue.
Post-Surgery Healing & Oxygen Support – She has experience using hyperbaric therapy after surgeries and sees a connection between methylene blue’s ability to enhance oxygen efficiency and faster healing and recovery.
General Health Optimization – Beyond workouts, she sees methylene blue as a valuable biohacking tool for maintaining cognitive clarity, metabolic health, and longevity.
For Gabby and Laird, methylene blue isn’t just another supplement—it’s an integral part of their high-performance lifestyle. Whether you’re an athlete or just looking for a natural way to boost energy and recovery, their experiences show how strategic use of methylene blue can make a difference.
Optimize Your Family’s Health, One Drop of Blue at a Time!
Methylene blue is no longer just an obscure compound from the past—it’s becoming a powerful tool for optimizing health, performance, and longevity. From enhancing mitochondrial function and boosting cognitive clarity to supporting athletic endurance and cellular detoxification, the science behind this molecule is both compelling and promising. Whether you’re an athlete, biohacker, or simply looking for better energy and focus, methylene blue could be the missing piece in your wellness routine. As research continues, its applications in mental health, immune support, and anti-aging medicine will only grow. Ready to experience the benefits for yourself? Learn more, consult with a health professional, and start optimizing your mitochondria today!
Be sure to check out the full episode of The Gabby Reese Show with Dr. Sherr below!
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