Categories

The Peptide Craze: Biohacking and Human Guinea Pigs

Posted 30 March 2026

William Meller, MD

Skeptic Magazine

On February 27, 2026, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appeared on Joe Rogan’s podcast and announced that the FDA is preparing to move approximately 14 experimental peptide compounds off its restricted list and back into the hands of compounding pharmacies. He called himself a “big fan” of peptides. He said he expected the announcement “within a couple of weeks.”

One industry executive responded with what he called a prediction: “We’re about to unleash one of the biggest medical experiments in the history of America onto Americans as the test subjects.” He meant it as a good thing.

In response, first let me tell you about a patient of mine. Two weeks before I wrote this, a 40-year-old man came into my clinic in acute distress. He was intelligent, fit, and successful—and he was terrified. His throat was swelling. Hives covered his body. … Read the rest

Collagen (e.g. Verisol) for Skin Health: Science or Marketing?

Posted 16 March 2026

If there is one claim that should irritate any nutritionist who values scientific evidence, it is the promise that hydrolyzed collagen can reduce wrinkles and visibly improve the skin.

This opinion concludes: “When it comes to collagen supplementation, reported benefits generally appear mainly in small, weakly designed, or stakeholder-funded studies. As methodological rigor improves and conflicts of interest lessen, the observed effects tend to decrease and often vanish.”

Read the article at the American Council on Science and Health website

In the event the article is not available, it is reproduced here:

Collagen for Skin Health: Science or Marketing?

By Mauro Proença — Mar 12, 2026

At first glance, the idea sounds persuasive. However, after ingestion, the body breaks down collagen, like any other protein, into amino acids and peptides. These compounds enter the bloodstream and support the body’s broader metabolic needs. This fact alone doesn’t Read the rest

Taking collagen keeps skin more elastic but won’t stop wrinkles, say scientists

Posted 27 February 2026

BBC Michelle Roberts Digital health editor

Taking daily collagen supplements can rejuvenate the skin by boosting elasticity and hydration or moisture – but it won’t stop wrinkles, says a new scientific review.

Experts looked at the available evidence and say they are highly confident that collagen pills or powder provide “some legitimate” skin gains if taken over time but are no quick fix.

The supplements may also ease wear and tear, arthritis joint pain and stiffness, according to the results from 113 trials involving nearly 8,000 people.

Collagen is a type of protein made naturally in the body but that declines with age. It supports and strengthens skin, nails, bones and connective tissues, including tendons and cartilage.

‘Collagen is not a cure-all’

From early adulthood onwards, the body produces less collagen and existing collagen breaks down at a slightly faster rate.

Smoking and sun damage make

Read the rest

The Science of Red Light Therapy: Glow or Gimmick?

Posted 16 February 2026

Red light therapy has gone from dermatology clinics to the wellness world, promising everything from younger-looking skin and thicker hair to weight loss, pain relief, better sleep, and even improved mood. It’s sleek, futuristic, and marketed as an effortless biohack. But when one product claims to fix everything, skepticism is the healthiest response — the consumer marketplace is flooded with underpowered gadgets, exaggerated claims, and claims that race far ahead of the science.

Continue reading at American Council of Science and Health

Read the rest

Why Longevity Influencers Are a Total Fad

Posted 16 February 2026

From American Council on Science and Health

You’ve seen them on your social media algorithms: longevity influencers promising eternal youth with fancy gadgets, exotic supplements, extreme protocols, and million-dollar routines. In reality, most of what they’re peddling is just a flashy overpriced rebrand of what doctors and health experts have been recommending for decades.

The real evidence-based keys to a longer, healthier life aren’t secret: it’s called preventative care– something your primary doc has been advocating for years!
  • Move your body regularly, exercise consistently.
  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
  • Eat whole fruits, vegetables, and nutrient-dense foods.
  • Don’t smoke, and reduce or eliminate alcohol use.
  • Control blood glucose levels through diet and activity.
  • Maintain good oral health with regular brushing, flossing, and checkups.
  • Stay current on vaccines, primary care visits, and age-appropriate screenings.
  • Prioritize quality sleep every night.
  • Manage stress to keep cortisol levels in
Read the rest

Advice on conspiracy theories

Posted 18 November 2025

The article below, although related to chemtrails, gives advice on how to approach a conspiracy theory.

Why the chemtrail conspiracy theory lingers and grows – and why Tucker Carlson is talking about it

The Conversation

By Calum Lister Matheson – Associate Professor of Communication, University of Pittsburgh

Everyone has looked up at the clouds and seen faces, animals, objects. Human brains are hardwired for this kind of whimsy. But some people – perhaps a surprising number – look to the sky and see government plots and wicked deeds written there. Conspiracy theorists say that contrails – long streaks of condensation left by aircraft – are actually chemtrails, clouds of chemical or biological agents dumped on the unsuspecting public for nefarious purposes. Different motives are ascribed, from weather control to mass poisoning.

The chemtrails theory has circulated since 1996, when conspiracy theorists misinterpreted a U.S. Air … Read the rest

What the science really says about lion’s mane

Posted 29 October 2025

Story by Daryl Austin, USA TODAY

Many of today’s most popular supplements can trace their roots to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where plants and fungi were used for healing long before modern wellness trends emerged. So if you’ve ever taken ginseng for stamina, ginger to aid circulation or ginkgo biloba to sharpen focus, you’re doing so thanks to a practice that was first developed thousands of years ago.

The latest traditional remedy to gain modern attention is lion’s mane – a snow-white mushroom celebrated for its purported ability to enhance brain function and immunity. “Vegans and vegetarians also enjoy lion’s mane for its meaty texture and versatility,” adds Jen Messer, a registered dietitian and president of the New Hampshire Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Here’s what the science actually shows about this intriguing fungus – and why moderation and caution still matter.

What is lion’s

Read the rest

Functional Medicine Board Certification: The Line Between Expertise and Hype

Posted 03 October 2025

“Board certified” is a common and persuasive credential, particularly in medicine, often implying a recognized level of expertise. However, this term doesn’t automatically equate to scientific backing. For example, the Institute for Functional Medicine has a new board certification for its practitioners. While the title may sound official, the details suggest it’s more of a marketing tactic than a genuine scientific or medical endorsement.

The discourse surrounding Functional Medicine Board Certification often straddles the fine line between established expertise and burgeoning trends. As practitioners seek to enhance their credentials, it is imperative to critically evaluate the underlying principles and evidence supporting this approach. Rigorous standards and transparent methodologies are essential in distinguishing genuine expertise from mere promotional rhetoric. Consequently, a thorough understanding of both the benefits and limitations of functional medicine is crucial for professionals navigating this evolving landscape.

Read more

Read the rest

Efficacy of Lysine Hydrochloride containing medicines for cold sores

Posted 25 September 2025

https://www.tga.gov.au/news/news/efficacy-lysine-hydrochloride-containing-medicines-cold-sores
Published 24 September 2025

We initiated targeted compliance reviews of selected listed medicines containing Lysine Hydrochloride to verify whether sponsors had appropriate evidence to support their cold sore-related claims.

We found that the evidence provided by the sponsors was inadequate to support the cold sore-related claims. Consequently, all sponsors removed the unsupported claims from their medicines and their advertisements.

If you are a sponsor of a listed medicine containing Lysine Hydrochloride that makes claims regarding cold sores, you are encouraged to:
* review your supporting evidence using the Evidence Guidelines; and
* re-assess how your product is presented and ensure all claims-especially those related to cold sores-are accurate, truthful, and not misleading.

Read the rest

GLP-1 Six in-One Scam

Posted 22 September 2025

An advert for GLP-1 Six in-One Health Solution Oral Liquid has popped up on Facebook and other sites.

It claims to be endorsed by the Groote Schuur Hospital Trust and SAHPRA. The advert creates a halo of effectiveness with the packaging design, and ‘expert’ support. It claims GLP-1 SIX-IN-ONE Health Solution Oral Liquid was developed by a team of over 30 experts in international endocrinology and diabetology after more than 3 years of research.”

This product is a scam.

SAHPRA has not endorsed this product. In fact, it is an illegal drug as it is not registered with SAHPRA.

Even if it contained Tirzepatide, “visible results after just 7 days” is not possible.

 

 


The before and after images have been previously used for other products.

For example, this image  is  used   to   promote  the Lana  diet.

 

 

 

 


Linda Brown … Read the rest