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1 Tbsp of This Shrinks Fat Cells & Suppresses Appetite (works well with methylene blue)
~51 min
Episode Brief·YouTube

1 Tbsp of This Shrinks Fat Cells & Suppresses Appetite (works well with methylene blue)

Thomas DeLauer
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TL;DR

The four things you'd lose by not watching

4 items

TL;DR

The four things you'd lose by not watching

4 items
1

Spirulina, a natural blue-green algae, suppresses appetite by increasing CCK and slowing gastric emptying, mimicking a mild GLP-1 effect; take 1-3g before meals.

2

For fat loss, spirulina reduces SREBP-1 (fat storage enzyme) and increases PPAR-alpha (fat utilization), while also improving insulin sensitivity via phycocyanin.

3

As a performance enhancer, spirulina boosts fat oxidation, spares glycogen, increases nitric oxide, and improves lactate clearance; dose 5-8g pre-workout.

4

Combining spirulina with methylene blue (e.g., Troscriptions) may amplify energy production and lactate recycling due to complementary pathways; Seed probiotic supports gut health for overall benefits.

Protocols

Concrete recipes — what, when, how much, and why

4 items

Spirulina for Appetite Suppression

WhatTake 1-3 grams of spirulina powder or tablets 30-60 minutes before a meal to reduce hunger and slow gastric emptying.
WhenBefore the meal you want to eat less of, such as dinner, or in the morning for all-day energy.
Dose1-3 grams per day, pre-meal.
For whomThose looking to control calorie intake without stimulants.
WhySpirulina's phenylalanine and CCK increase quickly suppress appetite, mimicking a mild GLP-1 effect.
CaveatsBreaks a fast; avoid if strictly fasting. May cause digestive upset in some. Start low.

The speaker emphasizes that spirulina is not a thermogenic but a hormone modulator. He cites a study where spirulina directly influenced hunger hormones, and notes that the effect is quick, making it suitable for pre-meal use. He compares it to a 'short acting mild oyimpic' because of the gastric slowing. This protocol is ideal for those who struggle with portion control or snacking, as it provides nutrient satiety and dopamine satisfaction without excess calories.

Mechanism

Phenylalanine acts as a dopamine precursor, reducing cravings for empty calories. CCK slows gastric emptying and downregulates ghrelin, prolonging fullness. This hormonal shift reduces hunger signals rapidly, as seen in animal models.

Taking it before meals is one of the best ways to reduce appetite. It actually happens quick.

Also said
“think of it as like a short acting mild oyimpic.”— Memorable analogy for the appetite effect.

Spirulina for Exercise Performance

WhatConsume 5-8 grams of spirulina (ideally 6g) 30-60 minutes before workouts to enhance fat oxidation, endurance, and lactate clearance.
WhenPre-workout.
Dose5-8 grams, with 6g as a sweet spot.
For whomAthletes, especially those on low-carb diets, or anyone seeking a natural ergogenic aid.
WhyIncreases CPT1 for fat transport, mitochondrial efficiency, glycogen sparing, nitric oxide, and lactate recycling, leading to better performance and recovery.
CaveatsBreaks a fast; not suitable for fasted training. May cause gastrointestinal discomfort at high doses initially. Ensure adequate hydration.

The speaker details a study showing increased fat oxidation, time to exhaustion, and VO2 max. He explains that spirulina's ability to clear lactate means less burn and faster recovery, allowing harder training. The glycogen sparing is particularly beneficial for low-carb athletes, keeping muscles full and strong. The nitric oxide boost may also give a pump. He suggests that the dose-dependent effect means higher doses (up to 8g) could yield even better results, but 6g is a practical sweet spot.

Mechanism

Spirulina upregulates CPT1 to shuttle fatty acids into mitochondria, enhances mitochondrial efficiency to burn them, spares glycogen by promoting fat use, increases nitric oxide for vasodilation and nutrient delivery, and improves lactate clearance via the Krebs cycle, reducing fatigue. Phycocyanins mitigate oxidative stress from intense exercise, preserving mitochondrial function.

from a performance standpoint, I've seen literature talk about 5 to 8 g. 6 g seeming to be like a sweet spot. You can definitely take that five or six grams like pre-workout and it's going to hit you fast.

Also said
“spirulina increase fat oxidation rates increase time to exhaustion and increase V2 max in just a number of weeks.”— Direct evidence of performance gains.

Spirulina with Vitamin C for Iron Absorption

WhatTake spirulina with a source of vitamin C (e.g., a small glass of orange juice or a supplement) to enhance absorption of its non-heme iron.
WhenWith meals or pre-workout, alongside spirulina.
Dose1-3g spirulina + vitamin C (e.g., 100-200mg).
For whomThose with low iron or anemia, or anyone wanting to maximize spirulina's nutritional benefits.
WhyVitamin C improves the bioavailability of non-heme iron in spirulina, supporting mitochondrial function and energy.
CaveatsIf taking high-dose iron supplements, monitor total intake. Vitamin C may increase absorption of other minerals.

The speaker mentions that spirulina not only contains iron but seems to help its utilization. He suggests combining with vitamin C to further boost absorption, especially for those with iron deficiency. This is a simple stack to improve the nutrient density of spirulina, making it more effective for energy metabolism.

Mechanism

Non-heme iron from plant sources is less absorbable; vitamin C reduces it to a more absorbable form and chelates it, enhancing uptake. The speaker noted a study where spirulina improved iron status in anemic individuals, and adding vitamin C could amplify this.

you could take it with vitamin C, and that's going to help the utilization of the non-heem iron, too.

Spirulina and Methylene Blue Stack

WhatCombine spirulina (5-6g pre-workout or 1-3g pre-meal) with methylene blue (e.g., Troscriptions troches) for synergistic mitochondrial support and performance enhancement.
WhenPre-workout or in the morning for energy and cognitive benefits.
DoseSpirulina: 1-3g (appetite) or 5-8g (performance); Methylene blue: as directed on product (typically low-dose troches).
For whomBiohackers, athletes, or those seeking cognitive and physical performance gains.
WhyMethylene blue acts as an electron carrier/donor for ATP, while spirulina enhances fat utilization and lactate clearance; together they amplify energy production and reduce fatigue.
CaveatsMethylene blue must be pharmaceutical-grade to avoid heavy metals; not for those on SSRIs (serotonin syndrome risk). Consult a doctor. Spirulina breaks a fast.

The speaker argues that because they work on different axes, they don't overlap but complement. Methylene blue gives a direct energy boost, while spirulina ensures the mitochondria can handle the increased flux and clear byproducts. He recommends Troscriptions for purity. This stack could be particularly useful for high-intensity training or mental work.

Mechanism

Methylene blue accepts and donates electrons in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, boosting ATP. Spirulina increases fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial efficiency, and clears lactate via the Krebs cycle. The combination provides more energy substrate and better waste recycling, leading to sustained performance.

Personal experience

The speaker says he uses Troscriptions methylene blue ('I use the little troy forms'), but does not explicitly state he combines it with spirulina.

methylene blue is going to provide an additional carrier and a donor. So you're getting more energy whereas the spirulina is actually helping with the clearance of lactate to push back through that mitochondrial cycle.

Also said
“combining them is a stack that really, really amplifies things because they're not working on the same pathway, but similar.”— Justifies the synergy.

What's new

Personal practice updates, fresh positions, predictions

4 items

spirulina-appetite-suppression-via-cck

Spirulina contains phenylalanine, a dopamine precursor, and increases CCK, which slows gastric emptying and downregulates ghrelin, producing an Ozempic-like appetite suppression.

Why this matters: Frames spirulina as a natural, fast-acting appetite suppressant with a mechanism similar to GLP-1 agonists, not just a nutrient filler.

Background

Common fat burners are thermogenics or stimulants; spirulina works through gut hormone modulation.

The speaker explains that spirulina's phenylalanine provides a dopamine hit that satisfies cravings without empty calories, and the CCK increase leads to slower gastric emptying, making you feel fuller longer. He cites animal models showing quick hunger hormone regulation, and a human study showing reduced appetite. He compares it to a 'short acting mild oyimpic'. This is a novel angle because spirulina is often marketed for nutrients, not appetite suppression. The rapid effect makes it practical for pre-meal use, and the dual action on dopamine and gut hormones addresses both psychological and physiological hunger.

think of it as like a short acting mild oyimpic. It's the simplest way to explain except it hits you quick, right? So you can take it premeal and it's going to slow gastric emptying.

Also said
“there's something that's called phinyl alanine that is in spirulina. And this has a tremendous effect on appetite, like a significant effect.”— Identifies the specific compound responsible for appetite modulation.
“there's also an increase in what's called choleiccytoenine CCK which can allow for the gastric system to sort of slow down and this ultimately ends up down reggulating ghrein levels”— Details the hormonal cascade leading to reduced hunger.

spirulina-fat-storage-signaling

Spirulina decreases SREBP-1 (fat synthesis enzyme) and increases PPAR-alpha (fat oxidation), leading to reduced body fat and LDL cholesterol.

Why this matters: Directly targets fat storage machinery, not just metabolism, offering a dual mechanism for fat loss.

Background

Typical fat burners increase metabolism; spirulina alters gene expression related to fat storage and utilization.

The speaker cites a 12-week study with 2g/day showing reductions in body fat, BMI, LDL, and appetite. He explains the mechanism: spirulina downregulates SREBP-1, which is responsible for synthesizing new fat tissue, and upregulates PPAR-alpha, enhancing fat utilization. This makes it synergistic with low-carb diets. Additionally, spirulina binds fats to bile salts, aiding cholesterol excretion. This positions spirulina as a non-stimulant fat loss agent that works at the enzymatic level, offering a sustainable approach without the jitters of thermogenics.

it decreases what's called S reb SREB one, which is what actually synthesizes new fat tissue. So, it's decreasing the enzyme that stores and builds fat while increasing what's called PP alpha, which allows for better fat utilization

Also said
“when subjects were consuming spirulina, I think in this case it was 2 g per day for 12 weeks, they saw reductions in their body fat, as well as a couple other things, their BMI dropped, their LDL cholesterol dropped, and their appetite went down”— Provides human evidence for the fat loss claims.

spirulina-exercise-performance

Spirulina enhances exercise performance by increasing fatty acid oxidation (CPT1), mitochondrial efficiency, glycogen sparing, nitric oxide, and lactate clearance.

Why this matters: Positions spirulina as a natural ergogenic aid that improves endurance and recovery through multiple pathways, not just one.

Background

Athletes often use beetroot for nitric oxide or beta-alanine for lactate; spirulina offers a broader spectrum.

The speaker details three performance mechanisms: (1) spirulina upregulates CPT1, drawing more fat into mitochondria for burning; (2) it improves mitochondrial efficiency so those fats are used effectively; (3) it spares glycogen, keeping muscles fuller on low-carb diets. Additionally, it boosts nitric oxide for blood flow and nutrient delivery. A study in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise showed increased fat oxidation, time to exhaustion, and VO2 max. Phycocyanins reduce oxidative stress from intense exercise, allowing mitochondria to sustain energy output without relying on carbs. Another study found spirulina improved lactate clearance, not just reduced accumulation, meaning more lactate is recycled via the Krebs cycle, enabling longer, harder training. This makes spirulina a comprehensive performance enhancer suitable for endurance and strength athletes alike.

spirulina increase fat oxidation rates increase time to exhaustion and increase V2 max in just a number of weeks.

Also said
“it increases fatty acid oxidation. It actually increases the enzymes associated with fatty acid oxidation so that carnitine palm oil transferase CPT1 elevates drawing more fat into a fat cell to be burned.”— Explains the fat transport mechanism.
“spirulina decreased lactate accumulation. And it wasn't decreasing lactate accumulation in the sense that less lactate was building up. It was improving lactate clearance.”— Highlights a unique benefit for recovery and endurance.

spirulina-methylene-blue-synergy

Combining spirulina (natural) with methylene blue (synthetic) may amplify energy production and performance because they work on different but complementary pathways: methylene blue as an electron carrier/donor, spirulina enhancing lactate clearance and mitochondrial efficiency.

Why this matters: Suggests a stack that leverages both natural and synthetic mitochondrial support for additive effects.

Background

Methylene blue is gaining popularity for cognitive and mitochondrial benefits; spirulina is often overlooked as a partner.

The speaker explains that methylene blue acts as an electron carrier and donor, directly aiding ATP production, while spirulina improves the mitochondrial machinery's ability to use fats and clear lactate. In exercise, methylene blue provides more energy, and spirulina helps recycle lactate back into energy, reducing fatigue. They don't compete but complement, potentially leading to greater endurance and fat loss. He notes that methylene blue is synthetic and must be pure to avoid heavy metals, recommending Troscriptions. This combination could be particularly effective for those on low-carb diets or seeking performance gains, as it addresses both energy supply and waste management.

methylene blue is going to provide an additional carrier and a donor. So you're getting more energy whereas the spirulina is actually helping with the clearance of lactate to push back through that mitochondrial cycle.

Also said
“they actually work well synergistically. So, this video kind of makes sense to talk a little bit about both.”— Establishes the premise of synergy.
“combining them is a stack that really, really amplifies things because they're not working on the same pathway, but similar.”— Reinforces the complementary nature.

Recommendations

Products, supplements, and tools mentioned in the episode

3 items

Energy Bits Spirulina

Supplement

A brand of spirulina tablets; mentioned as a clean option.

The speaker doesn't have a specific spirulina recommendation because he doesn't work with any brands, but he notes Energy Bits is pretty good. He also mentions Thrive Market has some. This is a passing mention.

There's a company out there called Energy Bits that is pretty good.

Find Energy

Thrive Market Spirulina

Supplement

Online marketplace that sells spirulina; mentioned as an option.

I know Thrive Market that I talk about has some.

Find Thrive

Vitamin C (as co-factor)

Supplement

Taking vitamin C with spirulina to enhance non-heme iron absorption.

The speaker suggests combining spirulina with vitamin C, especially before meals, to improve iron utilization. No specific brand recommended.

you could take it with vitamin C, and that's going to help the utilization of the non-heem iron, too.

Find Vitamin
Disclosed sponsorships2speaker disclosed

Seed Daily Synbiotic

Supplement Sponsored · disclosed

Probiotic for gut health, using capsule-in-capsule technology for science-backed delivery.

DisclosureSeed has been a supporter of the channel for years; the speaker provides a 25% off affiliate link.

The speaker emphasizes that none of the fat loss or health benefits work without good gut health. He personally uses Seed and has for 4-5 years, calling it the one he would recommend. He appreciates their support of the channel.

vs alternatives

He positions it as a science-first probiotic with unique delivery, implying superiority over generic probiotics.

Personal experience

I legitimately use Seed and I have for the last four or five years. That would be the one that I would recommend.

if you want to just trust the one that I personally use, and this is the gospel truth, I legitimately use Seed and I have for the last four or five years.

Also said
“they utilize this capsule inside of a capsule technology.”— Highlights the delivery mechanism.
Find Seed

Troscriptions Methylene Blue

Supplement Sponsored · disclosed

Pharmaceutical-grade methylene blue troches to avoid heavy metal contamination.

DisclosureSpeaker provides an affiliate link down below; he is a fan and uses the product.

The speaker warns that most methylene blue is ridden with heavy metals, so purity is critical. He uses the 'little troy forms' from Troscriptions and links to them. This is his recommended source for those wanting to try methylene blue.

vs alternatives

Compared to generic methylene blue, Troscriptions is positioned as pure and safe.

Personal experience

I use the little troy forms.

most methylene blue is very, very ridden with heavy metals. So, you want to be very careful there. So, I use the little troy forms.

Find Troscriptions

Notable quotes

Lines worth pulling out — contrarian, specific, or perfectly phrased

6 items
Spirulina is an interesting fat loss tool because it's not a thermogenic. It's not typical metabolic amplifier like some of these other fat burners are. It's just a nutrient-dense anti-inflammatory hormone modulator appetite suppressant in a in an interesting way.
Concise summary of spirulina's unique multifaceted mechanism.
think of it as like a short acting mild oyimpic. It's the simplest way to explain except it hits you quick, right? So you can take it premeal and it's going to slow gastric emptying.
Provocative analogy linking a natural supplement to a blockbuster drug.
it decreases what's called S reb SREB one, which is what actually synthesizes new fat tissue. So, it's decreasing the enzyme that stores and builds fat while increasing what's called PP alpha, which allows for better fat utilization
Clear explanation of the dual fat-loss mechanism at the enzymatic level.
spirulina decreased lactate accumulation. And it wasn't decreasing lactate accumulation in the sense that less lactate was building up. It was improving lactate clearance.
Highlights a sophisticated performance benefit often misunderstood.
methylene blue is going to provide an additional carrier and a donor. So you're getting more energy whereas the spirulina is actually helping with the clearance of lactate to push back through that mitochondrial cycle.
Articulates the complementary synergy between the two compounds.
ficoyanin reduces insulin resistance via the inflammation pathway. Insulin resistance is an inflammatory condition. So when inflammation is increased, insulin resistance increases. But ficoyin reduces the inflammation directly associated with insulin resistance.
Connects spirulina's anti-inflammatory compound to metabolic health.

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Topics covered

spirulinamethylene-blueappetite-suppressionfat-lossexercise-performancemitochondrial-functioninsulin-sensitivityanti-inflammatoryantioxidantdosingprobioticgut-healthsynergyphycocyaninlactate-clearanceglycogen-sparingnitric-oxideiron-absorption
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