Liver Doctor Calls Bryan Johnson a Fraud; He Hits Back: 'Who Hurt You?'

Kerala-based physician Cyriac Abby Philips, popularly known as 'The Liver Doc,' has publicly accused tech entrepreneur Bryan Johnson of fraudulent practices, alleging that he sells potentially harmful supplements under the guise of scientific innovation.

Doctor Philips, through social, expressed his worries directly, comparing Johnson to notorious fraudsters Elizabeth Holmes and Belle Gibson, who infamously deceived the public about medical claims. "I am surprised not everyone views Bryan Johnson as an extremely sophisticated version of Elizabeth Holmes and Belle Gibson, selling expensive and deceptive tests, along with dangerous 'snake oil' supplements marketed under the Blueprint brand," he wrote on X.

Johnson, a technology millionaire who has become known for his extreme antiaging efforts, vigorously defended his brand and products. He claimed that his Blueprint supplements are supported by credible scientific research, are third-party tested, and come with publicly available certificates of analysis. He also argued that they are affordably priced. However, when Dr. Philips privately requested clinical evidence and dosage specifics, Johnson reportedly did not respond.

In response to Dr. Philips’ accusations, Johnson dismissed the criticism with a seemingly sarcastic remark: "Cyriac, why are you so angry? Who hurt you?"

Blueprint, Johnson’s longevity-focused brand, has drawn significant attention due to his extravagant anti-aging regimen, which reportedly costs him over $2 million annually. His routine includes a strict vegan diet, intense exercise, and the consumption of numerous supplements. One of his flagship products, the "Blueprint Longevity Mix," claims to enhance sleep, reduce stress, and boost energy levels.

According to the Blueprint website, the Longevity Mix contains "13 health actives" such as CaAKG, Creatine Monohydrate, Glycine, L-Theanine, reduced Glutathione, Calcium, and Magnesium. The product is recommended for consumption by mixing a scoop with water or food and is marketed as promoting deeper sleep, improved muscle recovery, and overall well-being. The website emphasizes that the mix meets high purity and safety standards.

Despite these claims, Dr. Philips persistently questioned the scientific validity of Johnson’s products. He asked for clinical evidence proving the efficacy and safety of the supplements, particularly regarding dosage determination. "Where are the dose-finding studies? Where are the efficacy and safety studies for these multiple botanicals?" he asked.

Dr. Philips also challenged Johnson to provide evidence that his supplements genuinely contribute to increased longevity. "Is there any preclinical study in mice, primates, or pigs? We can discuss human studies later, but at least provide proof-of-concept research," he demanded.

On top of his criticisms, The Liver Doc stated Johnson is not as transparent as he likes to think he is. He even called him a "modern-day snake-oil salesman" who employs scientific words to trick consumers. As proof, Dr. Philips included an article from the New York Times that described how Johnson may have his employees sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs).

In addition, Dr. Philips criticized Johnson for peddling supplements such as Ashwagandha and Rhodiola as "age-defying" supplements with little to no safety studies, stating: "How did you determine what the effective dose is for this? Where is the safety data for this formulation? Did you know Ashwagandha is associated with potentially serious liver toxicity and is not appropriate for everyone?"

Dr. Philips also pointed out other risks associated with taking Rhodiola, which can cause side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, excessive salivation, and in some cases worsen pre-existing autoimmune diseases. Additionally, despite increasing scrutiny, and repeated requests for evidence on the part of Dr. Philips, there has been no public or private response from Johnson to the latest questions posed to him by Dr. Philips.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sai Sindhuja K/MSM)