Andreas Breitfeld got everything out of himself in the first part of his life, until the system collapsed. In the second part, he wants to get even more out of himself and his body. How does that fit together? We met up with "Germany's world-class man of biohacking" (The Red Bulletin, 2020) for a chat.
Hello Andreas, I'm particularly pleased that you've found the time today!
MoleQlar: Among other things, you were a successful fitness editor and founder of a PR agency and are now probably the best-known biohacker in the German-speaking world. What happened?
Andreas Breitfeld: Well, how can I put it, I probably always need a bit of variety to continue being successful. No, joking aside, for me it was a real burnout that triggered a change of perspective. Since I've patched myself up halfway, I've stayed true to the topic of biohacking both privately and professionally.
MoleQlar: What is biohacking and how does it differ from a healthy lifestyle?
Andreas Breitfeld : Primarily the interest in the underlying processes and the quantifiability.
And the term "healthy" is actually somewhat complicated, in many areas what is healthy for one person does not necessarily achieve the same result for another.
We used to think it had something to do with compliance, but now we know, for example, that a specific diet works for around 80%, but not for the other 20%.
MoleQlar: With your biohacking lab in Munich, you have also made it your mission to share your knowledge and methods with others. What devices and gadgets can be found in your biohacking lab in Munich?
Andreas Breitfeld : Basically, I deal with everything that has a positive influence on life. If we look at evolution, many things are probably also involved in the origin of life: Kälte (Eisbad), Wärme (Infrarot-Kabine), light (LLT red light therapy) and other electromagnetic fields (magnetic field therapy and microcurrent), water (structured) and oxygen (hyperbaric oxygen therapy) are always included.
Find out more about red light therapy and photobiomodulationin our magazine.
MoleQlar: In addition to nutrition, fitness and various gadgets, biohacking also includes supplements and selected food supplements. What do you look for when choosing? What is particularly important to you?
Andreas Breitfeld : The data should be at least reasonably valid and I really appreciate it when the effect can be quantified. When it comes to formulas, I make sure that the individual ingredients are listed. Furthermore, supplements and food supplements are a real matter of trustin my eyes, which is why I only recommend a few brands.
I appreciate your good educational work, the high purity of the substances and the independent laboratory analysis.
After all, I want what's on the label and nothing else.
MoleQlar: You are currently working on a book on the subject. Can you give us a little insight into what we can expect in it?
Andreas Breitfeld : The title "Biohacking in Sport" is currently about to be published. It's about methods for improving performance in training and competition and how to regenerate quickly and "correctly". It reflects my work with athletes and coaches, but is also absolutely relevant for amateur athletes and everyday athletes.
MoleQlar: Which hack had the most unforeseen effect on your personal health and performance?
Andreas Breitfeld : For health, probably intermittent fasting and for performance, the cold. Nothing clears your head as quickly as a dip in an ice bath.
MoleQlar: What is part of your daily biohacking routine? What does a typical day in the life of Andreas Breitfeld look like?
Andreas Breitfeld : Most of it takes place in the morning: Drinking water with molecular hydrogen, plus the water-soluble supplements, going outside, ice bath, red light and meditation, a bit of sport (all in all 90 minutes maximum). Then I have an organic hacker coffee with MCT oil and pasture butter, plus the fat-soluble supplements, and I'm ready to go.
I like to make calls while I'm out walking - in the afternoon I like to move my computer work to the oxygen chamber.
I like to go to the sauna in the early evening and no more screens after 9 pm.
If you want to delve deeper into the topics, we recommend the article on sleep in our magazine.
MoleQlar: The biohacking sector has grown considerably in recent years. More and more people are focusing on health and well-being. However, it is often difficult for the average consumer to keep track of the wide range of options available. Besides, infrared cabins or hyperbaric oxygen chambers are very expensive to buy. In your opinion, what is the easiest way to get started with biohacking?
Andreas Breitfeld : It doesn't have to cost anything to get started. Most of the time, more time in the sunlight, a cold shower and a focus on nasal breathing are a great idea to get you started. Maybe keep a gratitude journal - that really works.
MoleQlar: One last question: Do you have any tips for biohackers and anyone who wants to become one?
Andreas Breitfeld : Don't rush it! Biohacking should be fun and not another stressor. For beginners, it's worth listening to "The Biohacking Practice" from Red Bull Media House. Together with Stefan Wagner, I shed light on a new topic every week.
Thank you for the interview and happy hacking! We are excited to see where the journey takes us.
